UpdatedTue, May 4, 2021 at 1:04 pm ET
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The threat of animal pandemics requires a swift response from the governor s office, agricultural officials argued Tuesday, advocating for the powers ahead of the coming Pennsylvania primary. (Shutterstock)
PENNSYLVANIA Coronavirus is not the only illness that necessitates a swift government response, state officials argue, as they continue to mount a defense of the governor s emergency powers, which could be significantly cut by voters deciding the matter on ballot questions during this May s primary.
Dangerously infectious animal diseases like High Path Avian Influenza, African Swine Fever, and many others exist overseas, and if they were found anywhere in the United States, officials in Pennsylvania said they would need to react instantly.
Pennsylvania is an animal agriculture state. Animal processing and production is a $34.6 billion industry that supports, directly and indirectly, nearly 140,000 jobs in the commonwealth.
This industry, worth billions to Pennsylvaniaâs economy, could be taken out in a heartbeat with one animal health pandemic like weâre experiencing today with COVID-19.
Bouncing back from disaster, such as an animal disease outbreak, is only possible if we collaboratively jump into action with a timely response.
Emergency response through an emergency declaration issued by Pennsylvaniaâs Executive Branch is apolitical for a reason. Inserting politics and debates slows response time, inhibits immediate collaborative coordination of resources, and puts necessary federal support funds out of reach.