News in Brief:
– USDA finalises rule under Packers and Stockyards Act to combat discrimination, retaliation, and deception in livestock and poultry markets, promoting fairness for growers.
– Aimed at fostering fair access to economic opportunities, the rule prohibits adverse treatment based on various factors and aligns with broader efforts to promote competition and strengthen local food systems.
The USDA’s recent announcement of the finalization of the Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act marks a significant step forward in promoting fairness and economic opportunity for growers. This groundbreaking rule is set to take effect in 60 days.
The Inclusive Competition Rule sets forth clearer and more effective standards under the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, specifically targeting prohibited practices related to discrimination, retaliation, and deception in contracting. This move is a direct response to the challenges faced by producers and growers due to increasingly consolidated markets over the last three decades.
Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack emphasized the administration’s commitment to eradicating discriminatory practices, stating, âDiscrimination, retaliation, and deception against producers and growers have no place in modern livestock and poultry markets.â He highlighted the rule’s role in establishing robust standards to govern the modern marketplace, illustrating the USDA’s dedication to building fairer, more resilient, and competitive markets for farmers and ranchers.
Key highlights of the Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and Stockyards Act
The rule prohibits adverse treatment based on various factors such as race, colour, religion, and disability. Additionally, it safeguards producers and growers from retaliation for engaging in protected activities, fostering a more open and collaborative marketplace. The prohibition of false or misleading statements in contract formation further ensures transparency and integrity in agricultural transactions.
For local farmers in the heart of agricultural communities, this rule signifies a turning point. It acts as a shield against discriminatory practices, empowers growers to engage in protected activities without fear of reprisal, and fosters an environment where honesty prevails in contractual dealings.
This rule is part of a broader initiative under President Biden’s Executive Order on Promoting Competition in Americaâs Economy. It aligns with USDA’s comprehensive actions to increase competition, creating a fairer playing field for small- and mid-size farmers and strengthening local food systems.
