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Ag groups send joint letter supporting Beagle Brigade Act

A coalition of ag groups is asking Congress to pass the Beagle Brigade Act of 2022.  The bill would authorize the National Detector Dog Training Center, which trains the canines. 

Allison Rivera, Executive Director of Government Affairs with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says the Beagle Brigade is crucial in preventing foreign animal diseases, invasive species, and pests from entering the country.  The coalition says authorization for the National Detector Dog Training Center will ensure canine teams can continue to provide robust inspection at US ports of entry. 

The US Customs and Border Protection says more than 116 ag canine teams currently provide screening at border crossings, airports, cruise terminals, cargo warehouses, and mail facilities. 

The Beagle Brigade has played a crucial role in preventing devastating diseases like African swine fever, Foot and Mouth Disease, Newcastle Disease from being introduced in the US.