Wisconsin has adopted a waiver suspension on testing for Porcine Reproductive & Respiratory Syndrome(PRRS) as well as Porcine Epidemic Virus (PEDv) in the states hog population.

The waiver brings some relief to the states pork producers after uncertainty on how far a proposed rule revision would advance.  The draft rule was approved by the DATCP Board on January 29th, and by the Governor on February 6th. It was submitted to the Legislative Reference Bureau on February 19 for further action. However, before the rule can become final, it must complete a legislative review and be published in the register. That process can take several weeks, sometimes months.  That's where the state's pork industry got nervous about not seeing the measure adopted.

“With spring movements and show pig exhibitions coming up quickly, WPA’s ask to WDATCP was to waive the current PRRS and PEDv testing requirements while we wait for final publication of the rule in order to reduce the economic burden associated with the testing,” stated Keri Retallick, Executive Vice President.

Curt Larson, president and CEO of Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association tells Pam Jahnke that it will make marketing of hogs in the state much less complicated.  Larson said that because of the requirement, they were forced to create two separate auction systems.  One for hogs that were going to the meat market, and the other for hogs that were going back to the farm as replacements or for further feeding.  

Larson says that the rule also put Wisconsin pork producers at a disadvantage since surrounding states never implemented testing requirements for their producers.
“Our thanks to State Veterinarian Dr. Konkle for her willingness to accept the waiver and listen to our producers in an effort to reduce burdensome testing that did not advance the intent of the rule to enhance swine health,” said Retallick. “WPA will continue to work closely with producers, veterinarians, and industry partners to safeguard herd health while supporting Wisconsin’s agricultural industry.”
The waiver, effective immediately, will remain in effect until the final rule is published. Wisconsin’s pork producers are encouraged to maintain strong biosecurity measures and promptly report any suspected cases of PRRS or PEDv to their herd veterinarian.