The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has advised the public that it is amending the regulations regarding the importation of live horses, ruminants, swine, and dogs by removing Panama from the lists of regions where screwworm is considered to exist. USDA reports it’s taking this action because the eradication of screwworm from Panama has been confirmed. This action will relieve certain screwworm-related certification and inspection requirements for live animals imported into the United States from Panama.

This final rule is scheduled for publication in the Aug. 29 Federal Register and becomes effective Sept. 29.