Bill > HR6513

This bill, known as the MINKS are Superspreaders Act, aims to prohibit the captivity of American mink (Neovison vison) for fur production across the United States. The legislation would make it illegal for individuals or businesses to transport, sell, receive, acquire, purchase, breed, or possess mink raised in captivity for fur purposes, whether the animals are alive or dead, including their offspring or any related products. The bill includes a limited exception for certain entities defined under the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, which typically relate to scientific, conservation, or educational purposes. To help mink farmers transition out of the industry, the bill proposes a buy-out program where the Secretary would attempt to purchase privately owned mink farms, with the purchase price determined by considering the average number of mink owned over the past three years and the farm's infrastructure value. The buy-out is subject to available appropriations, meaning the program would be implemented based on federal funding availability. This legislation appears to be motivated by concerns about mink as potential disease transmission risks, as suggested by the bill's title referencing minks as "superspreaders".

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6513/all-info