| VETO MESSAGE ON SHB 1538 |
| April 29, 2011 |
| To the Honorable Speaker and Members, |
| The House of Representatives of the State of Washington |
| Ladies and Gentlemen: |
| I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 5, Substitute House Bill 1538 entitled: |
"AN ACT Relating to animal health inspections." |
| Section 5 of this bill establishes a formal Animal Disease Traceability Advisory Committee to serve in an advisory capacity to the Department of Agriculture for this program. I am vetoing Section 5 of this bill. I understand the importance of involving livestock growers, feeders, farmers, and business interests in guiding this disease traceability program, but that does not necessitate creating a formal committee in statute. However, along with this veto, I am directing the director of the Department of Agriculture to convene an informal advisory group made up of key livestock industry representatives to assist the department as it implements the animal disease traceability program. |
| For these reasons, I have vetoed Section 5 of Substitute House Bill 1538. |
| With the exception of Section 5 Substitute House Bill 1538 is approved. |
| Respectfully submitted, |
| Christine Gregoire |
| Governor |