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We are soliciting public comment on a possible new approach to indemnity value determination and a new framework for the indemnity regulations currently found at title 9, Code of Federal Regulations (9 CFR) parts 50-56. These parts address payment of indemnity to remove animals the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) classifies as affected, suspect, or exposed to diseases of concern, to eradicate and control foreign animal diseases, emerging diseases, and program diseases. These sections specify values for animals removed for these diseases or the process to determine values if a flat rate was not established, methods of identification, confirmation of destruction, and other aspects of removal. The regulations can cover multiple species in each section based on the disease covered.

First, we are contemplating using an annual indemnity rate table for commercial livestock species when publicly available data exist for animal classes. APHIS would determine indemnification rates annually and publish the rates online. APHIS plans to divide indemnity rates by animal classes. We intend to work with other USDA agencies to determine the animal classes and values so common methods will be used for valuing animals and seek public comment on how this approach may affect members of the public, as well as any alternative suggestions.

Second, APHIS proposes a framework to consolidate all commodity indemnity regulations under a single unified part in part 50. Parts 51-56 would be removed, and the numbers reserved.