Upper Cumberland Times

U.S. Representative John Rose (R-TN) has reintroduced the Black Vulture Relief Act, also known as H.R. 2462, which seeks to alleviate regulatory burdens faced by livestock producers. This bipartisan bill, co-led by Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL), would allow these producers and their employees to take black vultures without a permit if they pose a threat to livestock.

At present, it is illegal to take black vultures without securing a sub-permit from the authorizing state agency, something farmers like Representative Rose find cumbersome and costly. "I am proud to reintroduce this important bill," stated Rep. Rose. He said black vultures present a significant threat to livestock, particularly young animals, and the current permitting process impedes quick action.

Rep. Soto highlighted the challenges facing farmers and ranchers, explaining that the bill is intended to enhance their chances of success by removing permit requirements before the vultures cause harm. The Black Vulture Relief Act has garnered support from numerous organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and several state-level farm and cattlemen’s associations.

According to Sam Kieffer of the American Farm Bureau Federation, "America’s farmers and ranchers know all too well the impact black vultures can have on livestock," emphasizing the bill’s significance in reducing the financial and safety burdens on farmers. Garrett Edmonds of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association noted that with the U.S. cattle herd at historically low numbers, managing predator populations like vultures is crucial.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to take nearly 1,100 species of migratory birds, including black vultures, without a permit, dates back to 1918. The bill aims to provide livestock producers with more flexibility while still maintaining oversight through reporting mechanisms.

Eric Mayberry, President of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, and Gary Dering, President of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, both expressed their support, citing the growing black vulture populations and the harm they cause to livestock. Steve Clements, of the American Sheep Industry Association, encouraged support for the legislation, acknowledging the predator's impact on sheep.

Rep. Rose, who represents Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District and is an eighth-generation farmer, continues his legislative work to support farmers like himself. The Black Vulture Relief Act could grant livestock producers the ability to protect their herds more effectively against the threats posed by black vultures.