News

Eleven proposed USDA rules & regulations need Obama’s approval

 

President Obama has more than 150 pending regulations to consider before the end of his term, and 11 of those impact agriculture.  The USDA submitted rules to the Office of Management and Budget for several proposals based on the farm bill, court guidance, and new technology.

One proposed rule affects the revised GIPSA rule or Farmer Fair Practices Rules.  The language would clarify that the Packers and Stockyards Act requires no proof of harm to competition from a complainant. Another proposed rule creates standards for organic poultry and livestock production.  This includes animal handling, housing, stocking densities, and even outdoor access for the animals.  There are also pending regulations for forfeitures under the Endangered Species Act, placement of expiration dates on animal medicines, and new guidelines for certain genetically engineered organisms.

It’s unclear which of the proposed regulations will be approved before President Obama leaves office.

 List of Pending Rules & Regulations:

 National Organic Program Aquaculture Standards

 Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices

 Forfeiture Procedures under the Endangered Species Act

 Importation, Interstate Movement, and Release into the Environment of Certain of Genetically Engineered Organisms.

 Viruses, Serums, Toxins, and Analogous Products-Expiration Dates

 Eligibility, Certification, and Employment Training Provisions

 Enhancing Retailer Eligibility Standards in SNAP

 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Photo Electronic Benefit Transfer card

 GIPSA-Clarification of Scope

 Tournament Systems and Poultry Growing Arrangements

GIPSA-Unfair Practices and Unreasonable Preference