Bill > HF434

This bill modifies existing Minnesota law regarding the importation of live Cervidae (deer, elk, and related species) to expand the circumstances under which such animals can be brought into the state. Currently, importation is strictly regulated due to concerns about chronic wasting disease, a serious neurological disease affecting deer and elk. The bill adds an exception to the existing import restrictions that would allow live Cervidae to be transferred between Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facilities and certain other licensed facilities that: (1) are USDA-licensed animal exhibitors, (2) house animals owned by AZA-accredited institutions, and (3) participate in the AZA Species Survival Plan. Additionally, the bill maintains a provision allowing the commissioner of natural resources to issue permits for importing orphaned wild cervid species that are not susceptible to chronic wasting disease to AZA-accredited institutions, following a joint risk assessment. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for scientific, conservation, and educational purposes while still maintaining safeguards against the potential spread of chronic wasting disease.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0434&ssn=0&y=2025