S.D. Farmers Union is Deeply Disappointed by USDA Decision to Terminate Farmer Fair Practices Rules

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it would be terminating the Farmer Fair Practices Rule on Competitive Injury, a rule that would have provided the most basic of protections to American family farmers and ranchers as they endure increasingly concentrated markets and unfair treatment from multinational meatpackers.

 South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU) President Doug Sombke issued the following statement in response to the announcement:

 “SDFU is deeply disappointed in today’s decision by the USDA and realizes the negative impact it will have on rural Americans. Withdrawing the rule shows little respect for family farmers and ranchers and a big win for multinational packers. This President and Administration has yet again let down the rural Americans who gave their support to get him into office to begin with. Leaving them to wonder when rural Americans will see a return on support from their own president.”

 “Clarifications in the Packers and Stockyards Act is a high priority for SDFU. Our efforts in addressing this impactful issue for our industry will not waiver. SDFU will encourage Congress and the Administration to clarify the loopholes left as a result of the withdrawal.”