MI HB5128

Amends the Animal Industry Act to add new definition for "council" referring to an animal care advisory council created in section 7a.

Creates an animal care advisory council within the Michigan Department of Agriculture with representation from veterinarians, agricultural producers, animal welfare researchers, animal welfare agencies, and food industry representatives.

Council members serve 4-year terms (with some initial 6-year terms) and are appointed by the director with advice and consent of the Commission of Agriculture.

Council shall review on-farm animal care certification programs within 18 months and consider science-based animal care standards at least every 5 years.

Council shall develop a process for certification of third-party auditors and establish appropriate fees for auditor certification.

Bill's effectiveness is conditional on enactment of House Bill 5127.