2004-2005 NIAA Resolutions & Position Statements

Animal Identification & Information Systems

 

 

19. Confidentiality of Producer Records

BACKGROUND: The U.S. Animal Identification Plan (USAIP) was endorsed by the United States Animal Health Association (USAHA) with a resolution requesting that the USDA use the plan as a guide for the implementation of the national animal identification system.

 

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requires that records obtained by public agencies be made available to the public upon request, unless specific exemptions are made for that information.

 

POSITION: The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) supports the development and implementation of a national animal identification system as outlined in the US Animal Identification Plan with the understanding, as noted in the USAIP, that producer data required by the system be kept confidential and exempt from the Freedom of Information Act. 

 

Approved: 2003  |  Amended: 2004

20. Funding for the National Identification System

BACKGROUND: It is well recognized that through the development of the US Animal Identification Plan (USAIP) a recommended framework was established for the implementation of a National Animal Identification system.  It is crucial that adequate funding is obtained to support the implementation of the various components of the USAIP. 

 

The foundation of a US Animal Identification Plan is a uniform premises system that identifies livestock locations.  The USAIP recognizes that the responsibility of administering the premises system lies with each State Animal Health Agencies.  National compatibility is ensured by individual states submitting agreed upon data items to a national repository administered by the USDA, APHIS, VS.  It has been recognized that to implement an effective National animal tracking system all states need to have the ability to develop and maintain a state premises system that meets the standards outlined in the USAIP.  

 

RESOLUTION: The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) encourages that adequate funds be made available in FY 2005 and subsequent budget years to USDA,APHIS,VS for the implementation and administration of the National Animal Identification system and funds be made immediately available to all states to implement and administer a national uniform state premises system as described in the US Animal Identification Plan.

 

Approved: 2004