AN ACT relating to animal health emergencies and declaring an emergency.

Amend KRS 39A.020 to define "animal health emergency"; amend KRS 39A.100 to authorize the Commissioner of Agriculture, in consultation with the state veterinarian, to declare an animal health emergency; grant the Commissioner of Agriculture emergency powers to order veterinary or veterinary technician services, request that the secretary of the Transportation Cabinet waive regulatory requirements relating to the transportation of animal feed stock or medicine; order the quarantine of any livestock, poultry, domesticated animal, article, or…

Agriculture Animals, Livestock, and Poultry Diseases Fish and Wildlife Governor Local Government Peace Officers and Law Enforcement Police, State Public Protection Special Districts State Agencies Transportation Veterinarians Local Mandate

Introduced: February 3, 2026

Last action: April 3, 2026

(Acts Ch. 17)

In effect since April 3, 2026

This act carries an emergency clause, so it took effect as soon as it became law instead of waiting the usual 90 days after the session adjourned (Ky. Constitution § 55).

Read the full text Kentucky Legislature LegiScan

AI-generated — always verify with primary sources

Plain-language summary

Beta

This bill creates a formal process for responding to disease outbreaks that threaten animals in Kentucky. It gives the Commissioner of Agriculture the authority to declare an animal health emergency and take actions such as ordering quarantines, setting up roadblocks, arranging veterinary services, and purchasing supplies quickly to stop the spread of disease among livestock, poultry, and other animals. It also allows the Commissioner to coordinate with state and local agencies and request federal help if needed. Who it may affect: farmers, livestock and poultry owners, veterinarians and veterinary technicians, and transportation operators who move animal feed or medicine.

Open official bill text (PDF)·Report a problem with the summary