Source:  Tom Johnston, MEATINGPLACE.COM,6/1/11

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee late Tuesday approved a 2012 Appropriations Bill with language to cut funding for implementation of a livestock marketing rule proposed by USDA’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) in June 2010. The bill now moves to the full House for consideration.

The approval drew praise from industry groups such as the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), the National Pork Producers Council and the National Turkey Federation, all of which adamantly oppose a rule that would restrict livestock marketing arrangements.

“The marketplace works well without government intrusion and this legislation is proof that many in Congress feel the same way,” NCBA President Bill Donald said.

The groups are still awaiting the completion of USDA’s economic analysis of the rule, initiated after the rule had been proposed.

A private analysis by John Dunham & Associates that was commissioned by the American Meat Institute (AMI) projects that the rule would cost $14 billion and 104,000 jobs. The analysis also projects that consumers will see increased meat and poultry prices for lower-quality products.
 

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