A measure backed by both the South Dakota Farmers Union and Stock Grower’s Association passed the State Senate Affairs Committee on Wednesday on a 5 to 3 vote. Farmers Union’s Legislative Director Matt Sibley says SB 135 calls for a statewide country of origin labeling requirement on beef.

He says if retailers don’t know where the product’s origin, they would need to label it unknown under the legislation. Sibley says he’s optimistic about full passage of the bill although it will take some work to get it through.

Sibley says at this time the legislation only addresses beef although there is a possibility pork could be added later.

Sibley says SB 135 is similar to a COOL bill brought up last session. It now goes on to the full Senate for consideration.