Livestock ID Bill Introduced

May 22, 2002

A new Senate bill would require microbiological performance standards for federally inspected meat and poultry plants and an animal identification system that would facilitate the trace-back of meat and poultry to the live animal. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) sponsored the bill, S. 2532.

It would require USDA to withhold the mark of inspection from products produced at plants that fail to meet microbiological standards as well as reinstating the salmonella performance standards. The bill also would require states to report outbreaks of food-borne illnesses to the federal government. Additional protections also would be afforded to federal compliance personnel under the bill

Two studies would be required as well. USDA would be required to study means of improving recruitment of USDA inspectors, and a study on a rapid method for detection of chlorophyll on carcasses or other rapid detection technologies must be conducted. Reports are due on both studies within 180 days of the bill's passage.

Other provisions include a requirement that the agriculture Secretary restrict the movement of any animal or meat product shown to contain a disease, residue or human pathogen that may pose a risk to public health.