Eight Northern Plains Senators including South Dakota’s John Thune and Mike Rounds want the Biden Administration to withdraw a USDA final rule on importation of sheep and goats. The Senators are asking the Ag Department to withdraw the rule until current market conditions can be fully evaluated. South Dakota Sheep Grower’s Association President Jim Van Dyke says that rule could be harmful as it would remove brain disorder related import restrictions on sheep and goats.

He says scrapies is a main disease concern if this rule is left in place.

Van Dyke says it’d be really tough on America’s sheep growers if scrapies were to get in as it’s practically been eliminated in the United States. He says they keep weighing in with South Dakota’s Congressional delegation on this issue and are pleased so far with the response.

The import rule was finalized on January 14 and now lawmakers want it thrown out and reconsidered.