Sec. 801. Definitions for humanely raised livestock and poultry certification programs
147 words·~1 min read·
/bill/115/hr/4425/ih/section-801·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
In this subtitle: The term independent animal welfare certification program means an entity approved by the Secretary of Agriculture that uses qualified third-party on-farm auditors to routinely assess a producer’s 100 percent compliance with specific animal welfare standards exceeding industry standards (based on industry guidelines), subject to the following conditions: The standards’ protocols are made public. The standards include, at a minimum, provisions for space allowance, environmental enrichment and ability to engage in natural behaviors, pain control and physical alternations, handling, and responsible antibiotic use.
Routine caging, crating or tethering of animals is prohibited. Auditors have no vested or financial interest in audit outcomes. Auditors possess a background in animal welfare science or have received equivalent training, and are able to recognize, review, and apply established farm animal welfare standards and protocols. The term eligible costs means costs associated with application fees, inspections, labeling, shipment and marketing.