U.S. House Votes to Deny Money to Enforce Meat Labelling Requirement
One provision of the 2002 Farm Bill that U.S. president George W. Bush signed into law is a requirement that meat packers and retailers affix labels to their products describing the geographical origin of the meat.
In June, however, the House Appropriations agriculture subcommittee unanimously approved language in a U.S. Department of Agriculture funding bill that prohibits the USDA from spending any money to enforce this new requirement.
Those affected by the law argue that it is very expensive while providing only a marginal benefit (if any). The Associated Press reports that the USDA estimates the costs of complying with the requirement would be $1.9 billion annually.
Rep. Henry Bonilla (R-Texas) told the Associated Press that the language was designed to give those affected more time to study the law’s implications,
Before any decision is made, the producers, processors, retailers and meat industry must have the opportunity to consider the ramifications.
But Consumer Federation of America assistant director Arthur Jaeger told the Associated Press that the industry had more than enough time to study the costs without cutting all funding for enforcement of the rule,
How much study do they need? Implementation was specifically put off until fall of 2004, specifically to allow thorough review and consideration of how to implement it. They’ve had plenty of time to do it. Why on earth would you need more?
Source:
House panel rejects meat labeling money. Emily Gersema, June 18, 2003.
Tags: Cows