Source: Pork Business

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) has opposed the USDA’s proposed rulemaking on “Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets,” which addresses unfair practices under the Packers and Stockyards Act (PSA). While NPPC supports effective PSA enforcement for competitive pricing, they believe the proposal could harm pork producers by increasing frivolous litigation. The organization criticized the vague language of the rule, arguing it creates unnecessary uncertainty, particularly affecting independent hog farmers and pork processors as they recover from recent economic hardships.

NPPC asserts that the rule exceeds USDA’s authority by removing the requirement to demonstrate “harm to competition,” which is a crucial element in PSA claims. They emphasize that existing laws already provide sufficient safeguards against anti-competitive practices. Overall, NPPC is willing to collaborate with the USDA to ensure that regulations protect the pork industry without imposing undue burdens or limiting market opportunities.

Read the full story HERE: https://www.porkbusiness.com/news/industry/nppc-comments-packers-and-stockyards-act-rule