STATEHOUSE (March 16, 2021) – Legislation co-sponsored by State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) that would strengthen disease-reporting practices in order to better protect livestock and the health of Hoosiers could soon be law.
According to Prescott, current law requires a veterinarian, owner, caretaker or custodian of an animal infected with a dangerous or contagious disease to report it to the state veterinarian within 48 hours of discovering the disease. If signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb, the bill would move up the reporting time to within 24 hours to help prevent potential outbreaks among animals and keep Hoosiers' food supply safe.
"This legislation could help prevent infectious diseases from quickly spreading through livestock," Prescott said. "For farmers, this is their livelihood and a sickness can mean a big financial hit. This is especially important in order to control infections between herds."
Prescott said the policy also requires a laboratory or animal health professional to report any test results with a positive diagnosis within 24 hours.
Senate Enrolled Act 53 is now eligible for action by the governor. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more.
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State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33, which
includes Jay and Randolph counties, and a portion of Delaware County.
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