The U.S. Congress has chosen to delay mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for meat until 2008, virtually killing the law. Congress made this decision despite the fact that the largest coalition ever formed was created to support MCOOL. It goes without saying that every poll taken shows American consumers overwhelmingly support the program. What has happened is a great disservice to the American people and independent livestock producers across the nation.

Those that have the power to govern are granted that right by those they govern; not by multi-national companies or political action committees (PACs). It seems like our friends in Washington have forgotten that fact, and until we do something about it - like let our right to vote do the talking - they will continue to ignore our interests and vote with the deep pockets of the corporate giants. Regardless of party affiliation, those that have ignored our interests must be punished with the loss of our support on election day.

While Congress rejected MCOOL, it funded the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) to the tune of $33.34 million. This issue has, at best, divided those that it affects. Public comments received on the matter have been mixed. Large companies, and the organizations that represent them, are in favor of the plan but the majority of American producers who will be the most affected, are opposed to it. Why would organizations like NCBA be so favorable to the NAIS plan and why would they advocate for privatization? Could it be because NCBA has positioned itself as the frontrunner to oversee the private information the system will entail and could it be that NCBA sees profit in doing so?

The appropriations measure hands $38.45 million to GIPSA (Grain Inspection, Packer and Stockyards). When was the last time GIPSA lived up to its name and did anything that resembles the intent for which it was created? The Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 makes very clear that anti-trust will not be tolerated, that preferential treatment is illegal and that captive supplies are against the law. We have yet to see any proof that GIPSA takes its mission seriously.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) received a substantial increase in funding, by about $20 million. It is problematic that USDA wants to lower our import safety standards as they apply to beef, but receives an additional $20 million increase to a bloated budget of over $800 million but all the while cannot provide American consumers with country of origin labeling.
By delaying MCOOL until 2008, the program will expire before it was ever implemented. This was not a honest fight. Dirty, backroom politics prevailed. Legislation that was signed into law back in 2002 was de-railed through budget gimmicks driven by the corporations and foreign interests that have infiltrated and polluted our federal government.

All government begins at the local level, whether its municipal, county, state or federal. We must spend out right to vote wisely by supporting those who support us and punishing those who do not. It is the American people who grant the right to govern. Those who do not value that investment should find other employment.CC