(WASHINGTON) - Despite an ongoing global pandemic, national
stay-at-home orders, and spring cattle work, members of the United States
Cattlemen's Association (USCA) still found a way to
"travel" to Washington, D.C. and meet with their Members of
Congress.
From June 15-17, nearly 50 cattle producers from 15 states
participated in the first-ever virtual Washington, DC
"Fly-In". This year proved an especially critical time to meet
with lawmakers as producers grapple with COVID-19-related losses and the
Department of Justice undertakes an investigation into
anti-competitive behavior by the Big Four meatpackers.
USCA focused on several key pieces of legislation related to
marketing and competition reform, building capacity for
independent meat processors, truth in labeling, U.S. cattle and beef
trade, and livestock transportation.
USCA President Brooke Miller issued the following statement:
"First, I'd like to thank the nearly 50 members who
made the time to participate in the policy-making process,
especially the new members who stepped up and took on the
responsibility of building a better industry. This is
the foundation of a grassroots organization and we will never
take our members' dedication and commitment to the greater cause
for granted.
"We knew we couldn't sit on the sidelines this year and
were pleased with the conversations we had with Congressional staff, who
also recognize the need for bold action. There is
incredible momentum this year for change, more so than I have ever
seen in years past. USCA is ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead
as we build a more profitable, and therefore sustainable,
future."