Wayne Allard: “The USDA Minimal Risk Region rule should be implemented because it is grounded in solid, sound science and will help end…”

“The USDA Minimal Risk Region rule should be implemented because it is grounded in solid, sound science and will help end a situation that has wreaked havoc on beef trade for too long. It will protect the integrity of the human supply system and stabilize agricultural trade. Canada meets the requirements of a minimal risk region, based upon a number of its actions. It has prohibited specific risk material in human food, as we do here in the United States. It placed import restrictions sufficient to minimize exposures to BSE. It has built and structured surveillance for BSE at levels to meet or exceed international guidelines, as we do here. And it has enacted a ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban. Finally, the appropriate epidemiological investigations, risk assessment, and risk mitigation measures have been imposed. Opening the border with Canada will help restore the beef industry's ability to remain competitive in an increasingly global marketplace and protect long-term job stability in the United States.”