Summary

Authorizes USDA officials, working with the U.S. Trade Representative, to negotiate agreements with foreign governments (including regionalization, zoning, and compartmentalization arrangements) to limit the disruption to U.S. animal-product exports when animal disease outbreaks occur. Negotiations must take into account accepted global research advances so that modern, science-based approaches guide export-market engagement. The change amends existing animal health law to create a clear, authorized pathway for federal negotiators to pursue targeted trade arrangements intended to preserve market access and reduce the export impact of animal disease events; no new funding or implementation deadlines are specified.

Key Points

• Adds authority in the Animal Health Protection Act for USDA officials to engage foreign governments on export-preserving arrangements.
• Requires consultation with the U.S. Trade Representative for trade-related negotiations.
• Specifically authorizes regionalization, zoning, compartmentalization, and related agreements to limit export impacts during animal disease outbreaks.
• Directs negotiators to consider accepted global research advances—encouraging science-based agreements.
• Provides negotiation and engagement authority only; it does not provide new funding or detailed implementation rules.
• Aims to protect market access for U.S. animal and animal-product exporters during disease events.
• Implementation will rely on interagency coordination and existing surveillance, certification, and risk-assessment processes.

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