New Bill Aims to Permanently Halt CDC's International Pet Travel Rule

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A new bill introduced by Congressman Tim Kennedy (D-NY26) seeks to permanently halt a recent rule by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that imposes strict regulations on international pet travel. The legislation, known as the Border-Crossing and Re-Entry for K9s Act, is a response to growing concerns over the CDC's updated dog importation regulations, which took effect on August 1, 2024.

The CDC's rule mandates that all dogs entering the United States must be at least six months old, have a microchip, and be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form, valid for six months. The rule also requires rabies vaccination documentation for dogs traveling from countries deemed low-risk for dog rabies if the dog has visited a high-risk country within the last six months.

Congressman Kennedy, who has been vocal in his opposition to the rule, introduced the bill to address what he describes as "an excessive burden" on travelers, particularly those from border communities. "This CDC policy places an unnecessary strain on U.S. citizens, especially those who regularly cross the Northern Border with their canine companions," Kennedy stated. He emphasized the need for a more balanced approach that safeguards public health without imposing unreasonable restrictions on pet owners.

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The bill seeks to eliminate the CDC Dog Import Form requirement and allow dogs younger than six months to enter the U.S. It also aims to streamline the process for dogs traveling from low-risk countries, removing the need for rabies vaccination documentation if the dog has not been in a high-risk country in the past six months.

The CDC's updated regulations were implemented to prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies into the United States, a virus that was eliminated domestically in 2007. The agency argues that these measures are necessary to protect both human and animal health. However, the regulations have faced criticism for their potential to cause significant disruptions for pet owners, particularly those traveling internationally.

Kennedy's bill has garnered support from pet advocacy groups and travelers who argue that the CDC's rule is overly restrictive and not in line with the realities of modern pet travel. The bill's progress will be closely watched by those affected by the CDC's regulations, as it represents a significant pushback against the agency's authority in managing public health issues related to international travel.

As the debate over the bill unfolds, it highlights the ongoing tension between public health measures and the rights and conveniences of pet owners, particularly in a globalized world where international travel with pets is increasingly common.