Gov. Heineman Signs Bill Helping
Livestock Producers Meet Inspection Requirements

(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman today signed LB 677 into law. The bill amends the Livestock Waste Management Act to allow cow and calf operators additional time to request an inspection by the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Introduced by Sen. Annette Dubas of Fullerton and prioritized by Sen. Deb Fischer of Valentine, LB 677 gives cow and calf operators defined as animal feeding operations (AFO) until Jan. 1, 2009 to request an inspection of their facilities without incurring late fees. Inspections determine if producers are in compliance with livestock regulations or if additional measures are required.

“LB 677 makes a sensible change to help our Nebraska producers,” Gov. Heineman said. “This bill will help provide owners of certain livestock operations with much-needed flexibility in complying with changing regulations.”

Michael Kelsey, Executive Vice President of the Nebraska Cattlemen, said, “This is important legislation that helps bring producers into compliance in a business friendly manner. It isn’t as simple as it may seem. Special thanks to Governor Heineman and Senators Dubas and Fischer for their recognition of this important legislation.”

Late fees still apply for all other AFO’s who had not requested an inspection prior to Jan. 1, 2000. In the future, late fees will apply to calving operations that do not request an inspection by the new deadline.

John Hansen, President of the Nebraska Farmers Union, said, “This is a good example of the Ag community working together to deal with the regulatory issue created by changing federal standards. We must continue working for opportunities to provide appropriate support for Nebraska’s livestock producers. While there is not an opt-out for these regulations, this will provide additional time for livestock producers.”

Sen. Dubas said, “The Nebraska Cattlemen came to me asking to help carry this bill. As a livestock producer, I was happy to help and see the bill through. I’m pleased the Governor has signed this bill into law.”

This bill takes effect immediately.