PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 16-54 WAC, Animal importation, the department is considering adding rules relating to livestock entering the state for rodeos and other timed events, and to clarify requirements for other animal imports.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapters 16.36 and 34.05 RCW.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Due to an increased threat of tuberculosis, the department filed an emergency rule regarding cattle entering the state for rodeos and other timed events (WSR 07-19-068) and is initiating rule making to adopt the rule as a permanent rule. In addition, the department is considering establishing testing requirements for exotic birds prior to entry into the state.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: The Washington state department of agriculture staff will develop the proposed language and will communicate with stakeholders regarding the proposal. Interested parties can participate in the public hearing/public comment process.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Lynn Briscoe, Washington State Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 42560, Olympia, WA 98504-2560, (360) 902-1987.
October 17, 2007
Leonard E. Eldridge, DVM
State Veterinarian