R-CALF leaders are disappointed with the delay of the GIPSA Rules. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced its delaying two proposed rules and the interim final Farmer Fair Practice Rules for 180-days or until October 19. The agency also set a 60-day public comment period from April 12 to June 10. R-CALF CEO Bill Bullard questions the action.

He says the Farmer Fair Practice Rules are intended to ensure competition in the marketplace, while giving independent producers the ability to see those rules are enforced.

Bullard says only one to two months is needed to adequately review the GIPSA rules.

The National Pork Producers Council, National Chicken Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association support the delay, but would like to have the GIPSA rules withdrawn.