Normally, we do not so much look at things as overlook them. — Alan Watts

In general, that is how I personally view the ambiguous and unnecessarily lengthy proposed rule changes and legislation set forth in politics. Recently though there has been an initiative proposed that has disturbed and perplexed me; this proposal is regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration’s (GIPSA) plans.  A rule ‘adjustment’ has been set forth (as required by the 2008 Farm Bill and through existing authority under the Packers and Stockyards Act) regarding livestock and poultry marketing practices.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has requested a 120-day extension to the public comment period for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration’s (GIPSA) proposed rule on livestock marketing. The proposed rule, announced June 18, suggests major changes to the way producers can market their cattle.

In a letter sent to GIPSA Administrator J. Dudley Butler, NCBA President Steve Foglesong reiterated NCBA’s concerns with the proposed rule and emphasized the need for additional time to thoroughly analyze its potential legal and economic impacts on U.S. cattle producers.

“The Secretary of Agriculture referred to this as one of the most sweeping reforms of the Packers and Stockyards Act,” stated Foglesong. “As such, it’s extremely important that we thoroughly understand the rule and both its intended, and unintended, consequences on the U.S. cattle community.”

NCBA believes the scope of the proposed rule goes well beyond what Congress intended under the 2008 Farm Bill.

“American cattle producers are innovators who have worked hard over the past several years to develop alternative marketing arrangements and marketing alliances to get paid for the value they add to their cattle,” Foglesong continued. “Whether intended or not, we believe that this rule jeopardizes these long-standing marketing arrangements that compensate producers for providing higher quality cattle.”

If this rule gains momentum it can greatly affect how we as produces are able to market our cattle and continue in the industry we know and love. The proposed rule will be discussed at Summer Conference in Denver and I hope you all can make the time to come and make your voices heard. If you cannot attend please leave any comments you may have on this article and I will do my best to represent what you have to say.

Interested in my resources?

Cattle Network Article
Cow/ Calf Weekly Article