Bill > SF0064

This bill addresses Wyoming's opposition to mandatory electronic identification (ID) devices for livestock, primarily in response to a proposed rule by the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The bill creates a new law that requires the Wyoming Livestock Board to inform producers about all available livestock identification options and stipulates that buyers in receiving states are responsible for electronic tagging if mandated, unless the Wyoming livestock owner has voluntarily used electronic ID devices. The legislation includes detailed legislative findings that critique the proposed federal rule, arguing that the current voluntary livestock identification system has worked well for decades and that the mandatory electronic ID rule would be ineffective, costly, and unnecessarily burdensome. The bill affirms Wyoming's commitment to maintaining traditional livestock identification methods like brands, backtags, tattoos, and ear tags, and calls for working with other states to develop transportation agreements that do not require electronic ear tags. Additionally, the bill demands a comprehensive cost analysis from APHIS regarding the implementation of electronic identification requirements, highlighting the potential financial impact on livestock producers. The act takes effect immediately upon completing the necessary legislative procedures.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/SF0064