Simpson issues emergency rule to protect livestock from disease

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson issued Emergency Rule 5CER24-4 on Friday to impose certain restrictions on the state’s cattle importation.

The decision came after the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed more cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in cattle across eight states.

“This emergency rule is a critical step in protecting Florida’s livestock and the health of our citizens,” Simpson said in a press release.

“We are committed to working collaboratively with federal, state, and industry partners to mitigate the risks posed by Bovine Associated Influenza A Syndrome and ensure the continued safety and integrity of Florida’s agriculture industry, which has a more than $180 billion annual impact and supports more than 2.5 million jobs,” he added.

The rule allows for the state to restrict not only the importation of cattle who have been exposed to the disease, but also any lactating dairy cattle from states with suspected or confirmed cases.

Non-lactating dairy cattle from states with suspected or confirmed cases must have a valid veterinary inspection certificate completed no more than 10 days prior to importation.

“Florida is at lower risk for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in domestic livestock as we are net exporters of cattle and import few lactating dairy cattle,” Dr. Michael Short, State Veterinarian and Director of the Division of Animal Industry, said.

“This emergency rule is yet another layer of security that Commissioner Wilton Simpson is putting into place to protect the health of Florida’s livestock and poultry,” he added.

Florida’s Department of Agriculture warned that the disease is highly contagious and could have “detrimental effects” on the health and milk of dairy cattle.

The rule is set to remain in place until further notice.