Which agency has been delegated authority for controlling interstate movement of livestock in the United States?

• A. Packers and Stockyards Administration
• B. U.S. Department of Commerce
• C. USDA APHIS- Veterinary Services
• D. USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service

Answer: (C)

Authority for interstate movement of livestock rests with USDA APHIS, Veterinary Services. This program is charged with safeguarding animal health and preventing the spread of diseases between states. Veterinary Services administers health programs, issues official health documents (such as certificates required for moving animals across state lines), and can impose quarantines or movement restrictions during outbreaks. It works with state veterinarians and industry stakeholders to ensure that livestock transfers meet health and regulatory requirements.

Other agencies have different roles: one focuses on marketing and competition in the livestock industry, another sets safety standards for meat, poultry, and eggs, and a federal department not directly involved in animal movement. The guidance and controls that specifically address moving live animals between states come from APHIS, Veterinary Services.