In the October 26, 2016, Federal Register, USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service ("FSIS") announced its intent to hold livestock owners, transporters, haulers, and other persons not employed by an official establishment responsible if they commit acts involving inhumane handling of livestock, in connection with slaughter when on the premises of an official establishment. The Agency intends to initiate civil or criminal action against these individuals. FSIS believes these actions will further improve the welfare of livestock handled in connection with slaughter by ensuring that all persons who inhumanely handle livestock in connection with slaughter are held accountable. Comments are due November 25, 2016.

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