Farmers Union Testifies Before Senate Judiciary Committee on Behalf of Fair Market & Prices for Cattle Producers

The voice of South Dakota’s cattle producers was heard today when National Farmers Union President, Rob Larew testified before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, says South Dakota Farmers Union President, Doug Sombke.

“Our cattle producers raise a premier product, yet for years, because of consolidation of packers, lack of oversight and the fact foreign meat can be labeled as “Product of the U.S.A.”, in many cases, these family farmers and ranchers are losing money. This needs to stop,” said Sombke, a fourth-generation Conde crop and cattle producer. “Today, President Larew did an excellent job providing the background information necessary for Senators to better understand the situation and hopefully take steps that will provide fair prices through increased market competition. This is not only necessary for our cattle producers, but necessary for national food security.”

Larew’s comments point to the National Farmers Union policy which aligns with South Dakota Farmers Union policy on enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act, truth in labeling, reinstatement of Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) and more. This policy is developed and voted on by family farmers and ranchers from across South Dakota and the nation.

Click here view a transcript of President Larew’s testimony.