APHIS ENFORCEMENT SERVICES ANNUAL ENFORCEMENT REPORT
September 25, 2026
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The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently released its fiscal year 2025 enforcement activity summary.
Key Points in the Summary:
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New Cases: In FY 2025, APHIS Investigation and Enforcement Services (IES) opened 1,269 new cases supporting APHIS programs and CBP, ranging from complex, multi-state investigations to expedited reviews for clear-cut violations like regulated garbage and passenger baggage issues.
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Open Cases: By the end of FY 2025, 316 cases were still active, representing ongoing investigations or enforcement actions at various stages.
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Official Warnings: APHIS issued 818 official warning letters to individuals or businesses where evidence proved a violation, but APHIS chose not to seek penalties.
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Pre-Litigation Settlements: There were 487 pre-litigation settlement agreements, allowing alleged violators to resolve cases without formal litigation, resulting in APHIS collecting $869,947 in stipulated penalties.
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Formal Enforcement Actions: In 22 cases referred for formal action, APHIS—through the Office of the General Counsel—secured administrative orders totaling $257,269 in civil penalties, suspended or revoked three (3) Animal Welfare Act licenses, and disqualified 10 individuals under the Horse Protection Act.
This Aviation Regulatory Update is intended to keep readers current on developments in the law. It is not intended to be legal advice. If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact Evelyn D. Sahr at 202.659.6622 or esahr@eckertseamans.com; Drew M. Derco at 202.659.6665 or dderco@eckertseamans.com; Tyler R. Myers at 202.659.6642 or trmyers@eckertseamans.com; Xander B. Silva at 412.566.6069 or xsilva@eckertseamans.com, or any other attorney at Eckert Seamans with whom you have been working.
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