Effective November 5, 2024, the USDA’s updated traceability rule mandates that certain classes of cattle moving interstate must now be identified with ear tags that are both visually and electronically readable. This amendment to the 2013 rule primarily affects sexually intact cattle aged 18 months or older, dairy cattle, and rodeo/exhibition cattle crossing state lines. Feeder cattle, slaughter-bound cattle, and animals staying within their state of origin remain unaffected.
The new rule emphasizes the use of 840 electronic identification (EID) tags, which are tamper-evident and imprinted with a 15-digit identification number. Tags already in use before the rule’s implementation are grandfathered. Traditional identification methods like brands and tattoos remain valid under certain circumstances.
The change supports rapid traceability in case of a foreign animal disease outbreak, a growing concern for the livestock industry. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) highlights the economic stakes, estimating a potential $221 billion loss in the event of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. While the tags enhance traceability, they do not include GPS capabilities or environmental data tracking, addressing concerns about producer privacy and data security.
The USDA has allocated $15 million for fiscal year 2024 to support EID implementation, aiming to ease the financial burden on cattle producers, with additional funding efforts planned for 2025.
