loading...

arlier this week, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley introduced legislation to address transparency in the cattle market. But not everyone in the industry likes the proposal.

Supporters of the legislation say the bipartisan bill intends to foster efficient markets while increasing competition and transparency among meatpackers who purchase livestock directly from independent producers. The bill will require that a minimum of 50% of a meat packer's weekly volume of beef slaughter be purchased on the open or spot market.

However, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association does not approve of the legislation. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says, “simply put, Senator Grassley’s bill misses the mark.” NCBA said any legislative solution to increased price discovery must account for the unique dynamics within each geographic region.

United States Cattlemen's Association President Brooke Miller commended Grassley for introducing the bill. USCA says the '50-14’ or spot market bill, follows legislation already supported by USCA, the Cattle Market Transparency Act of 2021.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com

More From PNW Ag Network