| August 13, 2010 | |
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Senators Support USDA's Proposed GIPSA Rule Process |
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Contact: Jess Peterson 202/870-3867 - usca@uscattlemen.org |
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| August 13, 2010 (USCA)- Today, members of the United States Senate confirmed support for the work that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has done with regards to following the original intent of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (Farm Bill) in implementing necessary revisions to the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 (P&S Act). The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) supports efforts by both the USDA and Congress to enhance livestock pricing transparency and competition. “These twenty one Senators understand the critical importance of enhancing the nearly century old P&S Act,” noted USCA Executive Vice President, Jess Peterson. “Livestock producers from across the country are pleased to see these Senators standing tall for an industry that thrives under true market competition.” A letter led by Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Tim Johnson (D-SD) and signed by an additional nineteen Senators has been sent to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack that calls for a timely process in implementing the proposed revisions to the P&S Act that have been requested by the Administration. In regard to the proposed rule, the letter states, “The 2008 farm bill specifies that regulations carrying out its provisions relating to the P&S Act are to be issued not later than two years after the date of enactment, which was June 18, 2008”, thus further demonstrating the need to take immediate action on the rule process. As mandated within the 2008 Farm Bill, these revisions are vital to ensuring the continued existence of both a fair and transparent marketplace for all livestock producers. The proposed rule, as published by the USDA, provides necessary clarification of the P&S Act and would ultimately result in strengthened producer protection and the continued encouragement of a more competitive marketplace overall. The need to clarify the items within the P&S Act is vital and as stated in the letter, “The extended comment period, to November 22, 2010, will provide an abundant opportunity for the public to comment and thoroughly air any concerns about the consequences and practical impact of the proposed rule.”, after which, immediate action on the rule will be necessary in order to maintain a competitive marketplace for all livestock producers. USCA Marketing Committee Chairman Allan Sents stated, “USCA commends Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Tim Johnson (D-SD) for taking the lead on this letter. USCA also greatly appreciates the support from the following Senators including: Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Byron L. Dorgan (D-ND), Russell D. Feingold (D-WI), Kent Conrad (D-ND), Patrick J. Leahy (D-VT), Roland W. Burris (D-IL), Mary L. Landrieu (D-LA), Jon Tester (D-MT), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Edward E. Kaufman (D-DE), Herb Kohl (D-WI), Max Baucus (D-MT), John D. Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Al Franken (D-MN), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Michael F. Bennet (D-CO), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Mark Udall, (D-CO).” “These Senators have demonstrated their commitment to increasing competition within the marketplace and their support is greatly appreciated.” “USCA looks forward to continually working with Congress and USDA to move forward with the GIPSA rule implementation. Tens of thousands of cattle producers and independent cattle feeders will benefit due to added competition within the marketplace,” concluded Sents. |
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