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Bill

SB 79

Repeal laws related to inspection of animals in feedlots

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Kassmier

Montana repeals feedlot animal inspection requirements, eliminating state-mandated livestock oversight previously used for disease detection and animal welfare enforcement.

Chapter Number Assigned
#livestock
0
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Bill Summary · SB 79

Legislative bill overview

SB 79 repeals Montana's existing laws requiring inspection of animals in feedlots. The bill eliminates state-mandated oversight and regulatory requirements for livestock operations, shifting responsibility away from the state. This measure has already been signed by the Governor and is now law as of April 17, 2025.

Why is this important

Feedlot inspections historically served to protect animal welfare, detect disease outbreaks early, and ensure food safety by monitoring livestock health before they enter the supply chain. Removing these requirements may reduce regulatory compliance costs for livestock operators but eliminates a layer of state-level oversight that could affect public health, animal welfare standards, and disease control capabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Animal welfare standards: Eliminates state oversight mechanisms that previously enforced minimum animal care requirements in large livestock operations
  • Disease surveillance: Reduces the state's ability to detect and respond to disease outbreaks in feedlots before animals reach processing facilities
  • Industry burden vs. public interest: Operators save compliance costs, but the public loses assurance mechanisms for food safety and herd health monitoring

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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