Industry groups including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association are unhappy with the new GIPSA Rules finalized by USDA Wednesday. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Colin Woodall says the new Farmer Fair Practice regulation limits how cattle producers can market their livestock.
He says the rule gives too much power to the government regarding producer’s marketing decisions and will limit their economic opportunities.
Woodall says the rule is so broad it creates legal uncertainty and could lead to frivolous lawsuits.
Woodall says NCBA will submit comments on the rule and is also looking at possible legal action.
National Pork Producers Council CEO Neil Dierks says the rules could actually lead to more vertical integration as packers will be forced to produce more of their own hogs. Senate Ag Committee Chair Pat Roberts pledged to take a hard look at the rule.
