Who regulates the importation of livestock species?

• A. CDC
• B. APHIS
• C. USFWS
• D. NOAA

Answer: (B)

Regulation of livestock importation is handled by APHIS, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service within the USDA. APHIS is responsible for animal health and preventing the introduction and spread of diseases among livestock. They set import requirements, issue permits, verify health certificates, and oversee inspections and quarantine procedures at points of entry. This agency coordinates with border agencies to enforce these rules and conducts risk assessments to determine what health conditions must be met for bringing animals into the country.

The other agencies focus on different areas: the CDC addresses human public health and wouldn’t be the primary regulator for livestock imports; the USFWS regulates wildlife and endangered species trade under wildlife laws; NOAA handles marine life and some wildlife-related protections. While there may be overlap in specific situations, APHIS is the main regulator for importing livestock.