Number: RS22653
Title: Animal Identification: Overview and Issues
Authors: Geoffrey S. Becker, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: Livestock industry groups, animal health officials, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have been working to establish a nationwide identification (ID) system capable of quickly tracking animals from birth to slaughter, to deal with animal diseases and/or to satisfy foreign market specifications. Some consumer groups are among those who believe ID also would be useful for food safety or retail labeling purposes. Not all producers support a new program, fearing it will be costly and intrusive. In the 110th Congress, measures with animal ID and/or traceability provisions include H.R. 1018, H.R. 1148/S. 654, H.R. 2301, H.R. 3485, H.R. 3624, and S. 1292.
Pages: 6
Date: July 14, 2008