Legislation Banning Packer Ownership of Livestock Introduced

Randall Weiseman Cattle, Dairy, Livestock, Pork, Sheep-Goats

Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley introduced a bill last week that would make it unlawful for packers to own, feed, or control livestock intended for slaughter.

The measure would amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act and prohibit arrangements that give packers managerial, supervisory, and operational control of animals. The National Pork Producers Council says it supports the right of all producers and opposes any legislation that hinders market access, like Grassley’s bill. NPPC officials say the organization will review the text of the bill when it becomes available.

Grassley introduced similar measures in 2007 and 2012.