9.17.2010
WASHINGTON, DC--In a letter sent to the Secretary of Agriculture today, Missouri Congressman Roy Blunt insisted that the Department of Agriculture determine the effects of proposed major livestock marketing regulations on our nation’s farmers and the economy.
In his letter, Blunt calls for a timely economic analysis of how new, broad regulations impact farmers and their jobs. He also points to the fact that Congress has appropriated funds for these types of studies, yet the USDA has not utilized this resource to analyze their proposal.
“Missouri farmers are job-creators, and they are concerned about the economy and far-reaching effects of these new regulations. In a down economy, the last thing our farmers and ranchers need is more sweeping government regulations that make it harder for them to do their jobs, much less create jobs,” Blunt said. “That’s why I am calling for this investigation, to ensure that farmers aren’t bogged down by more job-killing government red tape.”
Blunt’s letter states: “During these times of economic challenge, the American people rightly expect this Administration to fully understand the impact of its policies on jobs. The Department’s failure to fully investigate the economic impact of this regulation is particularly concerning because it implies that the Department is heedless of the rule’s impact on people’s jobs. I am hopeful that you will act quickly to reverse that perception and ensure that Congress, farmers, and all Americans fully understand the impact of this new regulation on jobs and job-creators before it’s enacted.”
The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) is an agency within USDA that facilitates the marketing of livestock, poultry, meat and related agricultural products. GIPSA has issued proposed regulations that would negatively alter the way livestock are bought and sold.
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