Plain Language Summary
# Mink VIRUS Act Summary **What the bill would do:** The Mink VIRUS Act would ban mink farming for fur production in the United States, effective one year after the bill becomes law. It also requires that any mink currently on farms be euthanized humanely—using methods that comply with USDA regulations and American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines to ensure the animals don't suffer. The bill would establish a compensation program for mink farmers affected by the ban, though specific details about payment amounts aren't included in this summary. **Who it affects:** This bill primarily impacts mink farmers and the fur industry.
It could also affect consumers who purchase mink fur products, potentially making them harder to obtain domestically. The bill doesn't prevent states from enacting stricter animal welfare rules than the federal standard. **Current status:** The bill (HR 2185) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill's rationale appears connected to disease transmission concerns, as suggested by the "Vectors for Infection Risk" in its title, likely referencing mink's susceptibility to COVID-19 and other pathogens.
CRS Official Summary
Mink: Vectors for Infection Risk in the United States Act or the Mink VIRUS ActThis bill prohibits the farming of mink for their fur beginning one year after the bill's enactment and establishes a compensation program.Beginning 90 days after the bill's enactment, any termination of farmed mink must be done in a manner that (1) meets the definition of euthanasia specified in Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations (i.e., the humane destruction of an animal accomplished by a method that produces rapid unconsciousness and subsequent death without evidence of pain or distress, or that utilizes anesthesia that causes painless loss of consciousness and subsequent death); and (2) is classified as acceptable by the American Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals.This prohibition and these requirements do not preempt or limit any state law or regulation that is more restrictive. Further, any person in violation of this prohibition or these requirements is subject to civil penalties.USDA must establish a payment program to compensate fur farm owners whose operations involve the farming of mink. Under the program, USDA must provide payments for (1) the reasonable costs incurred to comply with this bill, and (2) the market value of the portion of the farm involving mink farming (exclusive of the land). Fur farm owners may not use payment funds for fur farm operations. Further, the owner must provide USDA with a permanent property easement that prohibits the operation of any fur farm on the easement area.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry.