Groups Fight to Keep Anti Retaliation Protections for Producers
Farm and rancher groups are actively working to defend a USDA rule that offers new protections against abusive practices by large meatpackers. The 2024 Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Rule clarifies what constitutes unfair treatment under the Packers and Stockyards Act.
This rule is under threat as major meat industry groups, including the National Chicken Council, have filed a lawsuit to repeal it. In response, Food & Water Watch and a coalition of organizations including R-CALF USA, WORC, and the Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association, filed to intervene in the case.
The rule outlines protections for livestock and poultry producers, especially against retaliation for publicly supporting fair market policies. It aims to restore fairness in a market dominated by just four major beef processors controlling over 80% of the industry.
“Over 100 years ago, Congress realized that U.S. producers had no recourse when subjected to marketing abuses by highly concentrated meatpackers,” said Bill Bullard of R-CALF USA.
The lawsuit challenges USDA’s authority to regulate market integrity, even as farmers receive only a small fraction of the food dollar—15.9 cents—while consumer prices climb.
Farmers say the rule is vital to preserving their ability to speak out and challenge unfair treatment without fear of retaliation. The rule also gives producers the clarity they need to understand their rights.
In February 2025, the court approved a stay requested by the Department of Justice, allowing the Administration time to decide whether to support or withdraw the rule.
Supporters of the rule stress its importance for independent producers, warning that without it, harmful practices could continue unchecked, putting the future of fair markets at risk.