Section 40. LBM licensing and training requirements

Part II. Live-Bird Markets

The provisions of this section shall become effective November 19, 2006.

Every LBM in Virginia shall apply to the State Veterinarian for a license to operate. The LBM shall comply with the requirements of this regulation. A premises identification number shall be assigned. The premises identification number shall be recorded on the license to operate.

Requirements for issuance of a license to a LBM are the applicant's agreement to comply with the requirements of this regulation and Virginia's Avian Influenza Proclamation, development and implementation of a written biosecurity plan approved by the State Veterinarian, consent to an initial, random and at least quarterly inspection of the LBM and consent for the State Veterinarian to review all records relating to the LBM.

Failure of the LBM to satisfactorily comply with any of the licensing requirements shall result in the denial of a license to operate. The State Veterinarian may seize and (i) destroy, or (ii) dispose of by any means necessary or appropriate, in the State Veterinarian's judgment, any poultry found in an unlicensed LBM operating in Virginia.

When the State Veterinarian determines that a licensed LBM no longer meets the requirements of this regulation, such license shall be suspended until such time that deficiencies have been corrected to the satisfaction of the State Veterinarian.

The LBM shall allow the State Veterinarian access to the LBM and the birds in the LBM for inspection and testing and for examination of the LBM records.

LBM managers shall attend training that is provided or approved by the State Veterinarian. Such training shall include disease recognition and biosecurity requirements. A certificate of training shall be provided by the trainer and maintained by the LBM in the LBM personnel files.

All personnel that work in the LBM shall be trained in biosecurity procedures as arranged by the owner/manager. A certificate of training shall be maintained by the LBM in the LBM personnel files.

No LBM shall transport birds directly from a production unit, a wholesaler, or an auction market in Virginia unless the LBM is also licensed as a distribution unit in Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 22, Issue 25, eff. November 19, 2006; Errata, 23:3 VA.R. 510 October 16, 2006.

Statutory Authority

§ 3.2-6023 of the Code of Virginia.