Weiser, Idaho – Western ranchers welcomed introduction of a bill to stop unfair and manipulative practices by meatpackers that harm independent livestock producers.
U.S. Senators Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Tim Johnson, D-S.D., introduced today the Livestock Market Fairness Act. The act would amend the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 to end certain anti-competitive forward marketing contacts and ensure that producers have full access to the marketplace.
“Ranchers thank Senators Enzi, Dorgan, Grassley, and Johnson for being long-time champions of independent cattle producers,” said Mabel Dobbs, Chair of WORC’s Livestock Team and rancher from Weiser, Idaho. “Ranchers want a market-driven, fair price to keep providing U.S. consumers with the healthiest and safest food in the world.”
Dobbs urged other Senators to cosponsor the bill. “We need to build support for fair livestock markets among Western Senators. Ranchers should talk to the Senators when they are in state during the upcoming break for Memorial Day.”