News

GIPSA delays effective date of interim final rule

The USDA’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has issued a 180-day extension of the effective date for its interim final rule.  The new date is October 19; earlier this year the effective date was delayed to April 22.

GIPSA acting administrator Randall Jones says the extension allows enough time for stakeholders to review the effects of the rule on their operations and ensures the opportunity for dialogue across all livestock industries.

Senate Ag Committee Chairman Pat Roberts says the extension will allow for the incoming Ag Secretary to analyze the effects of the rule and consider the recently submitted comments.  Roberts says the Obama administration finalized the rule on its way out the door and he hopes the new administration will listen to the concerns of farmers and ranchers and Congress to get rid of the unwanted rule.

The USDA has also announced it is also asking the public to comment on four possible actions the USDA should take for the disposition of the Interim Final Rule.  Comments must be submitted by June 12.