An economic impact study conducted by John Dunham and Associates, Inc. concludes that the Obama Administration’s proposed rule on livestock marketing could leave approximately 104,000 additional Americans without jobs. Consequently, the study reports a $14 billion reduction in the National Gross Domestic Product. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration proposed the rule on June 21, 2010, in response to a request made by Congress. However, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President (NCBA) Steve Foglesong said the rule goes beyond the intent of Congress and serves as another example of government overreach into private business.
Washington, DC (Vocus) October 21, 2010
“I am tired of hearing this Administration talk about job creation when their efforts seem to be more focused on job destruction. In fact, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack held a news conference today touting the Administration’s efforts to create jobs in rural America. Really? Enough is enough,” said Foglesong. “Congress did not direct USDA to write a rule that would take away the rights of cattle producers to be innovative and creative by embarking on contract agreements for premium, consumer-demanded beef. The goal of cattle producers is to provide the very best and safest product possible, while sustaining our family owned operations for future generations. The administration should help us accomplish these goals and not throw them down the drain along with 104,000 jobs.”
The study found that retail meat prices would increase 3.33 percent at a national level, which would result in a 1.68 percent drop in consumer demand. Foglesong said family farmers and ranchers would also witness a reduction in beef demand and profitability. He said it is unfortunate that this study was even conducted but USDA left no choice. USDA did not conduct a comprehensive economic analysis and has indicated to 115 members of Congress calling for an economic study that one will not be conducted.
“Why wouldn’t USDA want to do an economic analysis? Why wouldn’t the proponents of this rule want an analysis to build their case? This doesn’t make any sense,” said Foglesong. “This country is facing record unemployment and this Administration seems determined to surpass their own record and send even more Americans to the unemployment lines. I encourage anyone concerned about this economy, rural America and safe and affordable food to tell USDA to pull this rule. It is high time we stop this pervasive invasion of government into private business.”
The study, commissioned by the American Meat Institute, is available online in an interactive format that aggregates economic impact on national, state and congressional district levels. To view the complete study and the impact of a specific state or congressional district, go to http://www.MeatFuelsAmerica.com/GIPSA. For more information on the proposed rule, visit NCBA’s website.
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Mike Deering
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
(202) 879-9117
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