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House approves bill directing rules to test bulls for trichomoniasis; fiscal note questioned
Summary
HB234 directs the Department of Agriculture to adopt rules for testing bulls to control trichomoniasis in cattle. Sponsors cited Idaho's experience and stakeholder support; members questioned enforcement, dairy waivers and a fiscal note of about $90,000–$100,000. The House passed the bill and sent it to the Senate.
The Utah House passed House Bill 234, a measure that directs the Department of Agriculture to create rules to prevent and control trichomoniasis in cattle by requiring testing of bulls in certain circumstances.
Sponsor Bradley T. Johnson told members the disease is "the most serious disease that we have in the state of Utah for large animals," primarily affecting cattle, and described the bill as directing the Department of Agriculture to write rules requiring testing. He cited Idaho’s 10-year program, saying, "Idaho has had a 10 year experience with this. They've got a good program that works very well." Johnson said the program could be administered using brand inspectors and veterinarians and that cattle owners would bear the bulk of testing costs.
Members raised detailed questions on scope—especially dairy bulls—and enforcement. One member described the disease bluntly as "venereal disease in livestock," underscoring the contagion concern. Representative Beck noted a fiscal estimate of about $90,000 attached to the bill; the sponsor acknowledged the Department's estimate of roughly $90,000 to $100,000 for additional staff and expenses and said the cattle industry would likely shoulder much of the testing cost.
After debate and questions, the House voted to pass HB234 and will transmit it to the Senate for consideration.
