Bill > S859

This bill, titled the Animal and Public Health Protection Act, amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to strengthen the nation's ability to detect and respond to threats to animal health. It establishes a National Animal Health Laboratory Network by allowing the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements with "eligible laboratories," which are diagnostic labs meeting specific criteria developed in consultation with state and higher education veterinary officials. These agreements aim to enhance the Secretary's capacity to identify and quickly address animal health threats, thereby protecting public health, the environment, and the agricultural economy. The bill also focuses on standardizing test procedures, biosafety, quality management, electronic data reporting, and emergency preparedness within these laboratories, and coordinating the development of national veterinary diagnostic capabilities, including surveillance and technology. Priority will be given to eligible laboratories at existing federal, state, and higher education facilities. The bill authorizes $15 million annually for fiscal years 2014 through 2018 to carry out these provisions.