H.R. 6513: Minks In Narrowly Kept Spaces are Superspreaders Act

This bill, titled the "Minks In Narrowly Kept Spaces are Superspreaders Act," aims to amend the Animal Welfare Act primarily to prohibit the captivity of American minks, which are often raised for their fur. Here’s a summary of the main components of the bill:

Prohibition on Mink Captivity

Under the proposed amendment, no person would be allowed to:

• Transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase any American minks raised in captivity for fur production.
• Breed or possess any American minks, whether alive or dead, or any part, product, or offspring derived from them.

This prohibition applies to interstate or foreign commerce involving these minks.

Exceptions to the Prohibition

The bill does include exceptions to the prohibition. Specifically, it does not apply to entities outlined in certain sections of the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, which govern the trade of wildlife and plant resources and their products.

Buy-Out of Mink Farms

The bill also includes provisions for the government to purchase privately owned mink farms, subject to appropriations. The Secretary of Agriculture would be responsible for this buy-out initiative. The amount offered to mink farmers would be based on:

• The average number of minks owned by the farmer over the previous three years.
• The infrastructure value of the mink farm.

This initiative aims to assist mink farmers in transitioning away from mink farming due to the impending prohibition.

Overall Goals of the Bill

The overarching goal of the bill is to address concerns over mink farming practices, particularly in light of health, environmental, and welfare issues associated with keeping minks in captivity on farms. By prohibiting captivity and facilitating the buy-outs of mink farms, the bill seeks to promote animal welfare and prevent potential public health risks attributed to densely kept mink populations.

Relevant Companies

• TPB - Turning Point Brands, which may be impacted if they utilize mink pelts in their products.
• FRG - Franchise Group, as they might be influenced depending on their involvement with retailers that carry mink products.