USCA Statement on Efforts to Restore U.S. Cattle Markets 

(WASHINGTON) — Following Congressional efforts to provide immediate, short-term relief for U.S. cattle producers during these historic times, United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) President Dr. Brooke Miller issued the following statement:

"USCA would like to recognize efforts by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to keep the U.S. agriculture system running as smoothly as possible and providing certainty in uncertain times.

"Secretary Sonny Perdue, senior officials, and staff have worked around the clock to ensure continuity and we greatly appreciate the continued dialogue with industry and other stakeholders.

"Transportation, inspection, and processing of beef is critical during this time. From the transportation of beef across the country, inspections in plants, export ports and import stations – it’s essential all of this continues during these challenging times. Further, USCA requests that the Department continue its market oversight responsibilities and examine any anticompetitive buying practices currently taking place in the marketplace. 

"USCA would also like to thank Senators Jon Tester (D-MT), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Thune (R-SD) Mike Rounds (R-SD), John Hoeven (R-ND), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Cornyn (R-TX), John Boozman (R-AR), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and others for answering the call from U.S. cattle producers to help restore fair and balanced livestock markets.

"While there is still work yet to be done, we now have viable solutions that we can press forward with as producers handle the fallout from COVID-19. USCA will continue to convene industry leaders via our policy committees to find consensus on the issues that matter most to our members.

"USCA looks forward to working with both Congress and the Administration to find a way for our members to get back to doing what they do best: restocking grocery store shelves with the highest quality beef in the world."

COVID-19: The U.S. Cattlemen's Association will continue to monitor this ongoing issue and provide timely updates.