Import Regulations for Horses; Pre-Export Examination
Abstract
We are removing the requirement that horses offered for importation to the United States be accompanied by documentation of pre-export examination occurring within 48 hours of departure from the port of embarkation endorsed by a salaried veterinary medical officer. We have found that logistical barriers prevent affected parties from meeting this requirement at this time. This action removes the requirement, while keeping in place other requirements of the regulations.
Federal Register Source
This document is published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration. Access the full regulatory text, preamble, and docket comments below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026-06955 Federal Register document?
Document 2026-06955 is a Final Rule published by the Department of Agriculture in the Federal Register on April 10, 2026, with an effective date of May 11, 2026. We are removing the requirement that horses offered for importation to the United States be accompanied by documentation of pre-export examination occurring within 48 hours of departure from the port of embarkation endorsed by a salaried veterinary medical officer. We have found that logistical barriers prevent affected parties from meeting this requirement at this time. This action removes the requirement, while keeping in place other requirements of the regulations. View the original at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/10/2026-06955/import-regulations-for-horses-pre-export-examination.
Is document 2026-06955 an economically significant rule?
No. Document 2026-06955 is not classified as economically significant under Executive Order 12866. Economically significant rules require OIRA review and are estimated to have impacts of $100 million or more per year.