Livestock Info During Epidemic
If enacted, SB56 would restrict the dissemination of specific operational details related to livestock, such as ownership, numbers, locations, and financial information. The bill stipulates that the board can deny access to information that could lead to harm during an epidemic situation unless an investigation concludes that a violation of the Livestock Code has occurred. This change signifies an effort to balance transparency with the need for confidentiality in critical situations impacting public health and animal welfare.
Senate Bill 56 proposes to amend the Livestock Code of New Mexico by establishing regulations regarding access to certain information about livestock operations during public health emergencies, specifically epidemics. The bill is introduced by Senator Pat Woods and aims to provide the state board with the authority to restrict access to information that could potentially harm individuals or public interests during such times. The objective is to safeguard sensitive operational details from being publicly disclosed, thus preventing any undue harm to livestock operators or the livestock industry at large.
Discussions around SB56 may involve concerns regarding the balance between necessary information access for public health and the privacy rights of livestock operators. Proponents of the bill advocate that it is essential to prevent the spread of sensitive information that could be used irresponsibly during emergencies, thereby protecting individuals in the livestock industry. However, opponents might argue that this could lead to a lack of accountability or transparency, making it difficult for the public or other stakeholders to monitor and evaluate the responses to health threats concerning livestock.