U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack has ignored requests from 115 members of the U.S. House and several U.S. senators to conduct a comprehensive economic analysis of the new livestock marketing rules proposed by the USDA Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA). Vilsack, in his response, suggested USDA would review the public comments to determine “if all factors have been properly considered,” but did not offer to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis prior to completion of the rulemaking process.
NCBA President Steve Foglesong said it is irresponsible for the Obama administration to advance the rules without a clear, thorough analysis of how it would affect the marketplace. He said the letter from members of Congress shows bipartisan concern for the proposed GIPSA rules.
“Rather than ignoring reality, it’s time for Secretary Vilsack and the entire administration to put partisan ideology aside and listen to the calls of cattle producers and lawmakers across the country,” said Foglesong.
Source: Kansas Livestock Association