ANIMAL WELFARE ACT NOW INCLUDE BIRDS

USDA INFORMS AFA THAT ANIMAL WELFARE ACT WILL  NOW INCLUDE BIRDS

The U.S. Department of Agriculture/APHIS/Animal Care (USDA) has recently
received a verbal legal opinion that, contrary to the initial
understanding, the final language in the amended Animal Welfare Act (AWA)

indicates that birds and certain rats and mice (except for those forms
bred
specifically for research) are required to be covered under the Act.
Thus,
at this time, USDA is planning to proceed with a Proposed Rulemaking
which
will describe the scope of licensing requirements, minimum standards
requirements, inspections of facilities and who will be covered under
this
new law. Breeders, dealers, transporters, exhibitors, and carriers are
all
included at present, but how these terms will be defined is critical.
Representatives of all these categories need to provide input to insure
that reasonable definitions and regulations are developed.

The AWA is one of the most significant laws that has ever been passed in
regard to U.S. aviculture. USDA is scheduled to make the first public
presentation regarding the status of this Proposed Rulemaking as it may
relate to aviculture to those attending the Annual Convention of the
American Federation of Aviculture, Inc. (AFA). This Convention is being
held at the Hyatt Regency at Tampa City Center, Tampa, Florida over 8-11
August 2002. This Convention provides an early venue for aviculturists
and
other affected parties to have an impact on the regulations that may
result
from the Act.

  Dr. Chester Gibson, along with other USDA representatives, will make a
formal presentation to AFA Convention attendees describing the status of
this Proposed Rulemaking Friday, 9 August 2002. They will invite
questions
and comments at the end of their presentation. Further, they will also
maintain a booth in the Exhibit Hall throughout the entire Convention in
order to be able to provide additional information, answer questions and
receive comments. We urge that you attend the AFA Convention and express
your views. If you fall into any of the affected categories (breeder,
dealer, etc.), it is critical to your operation and to the future of
aviculture in the U.S. that your opinion be voiced. This is your chance
to
be heard early in the process and make a difference.
Any questions should be
directed to the American Federation of Aviculture (AFA) home office at
816-421-2473.