Many farm groups are concerned about Canada and Mexico imposing retaliatory tariffs as a result of the U.S. Country of Origin labeling law. A World Trade Organization Panel will soon set the damage amount in that case. Minnesota Farmers Union President Doug Peterson says their members recently passed policy calling for the U.S. Congress to change COOL to a voluntary program and he is hoping that will prevent retaliation.

Peterson says COOL is important domestically for consumers wanting to know where their food comes from and that imports from other countries are safe.

While Minnesota Farmers Union backs voluntary COOL, others groups think outright repeal of COOL is necessary to avoid retaliation. Those include the U.S Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers and many ag trade associations.