For Immediate Release
June 18, 2015
CONTACT:
Scott Marlow
Senior Policy Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (919) 542-1396, x210
“GIPSA Rider” Not Included in House Subcommittee Draft Bill
The House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee draft bill excludes the so-called “GIPSA rider,” which limits USDA’s ability to enforce rules that protect farmers from unfair practices in the livestock industry, such as company retaliation against farmers acting as whistleblowers. Riders, considered a duplicitous legislative tactic, enable non-germane policy provisions to be included in appropriations bills. For four years, the GIPSA rider has either prevented funding for rule enforcement or rescinded entire finalized rules.
The appropriations process is not complete and the GIPSA rider could still be included, but RAFI is hopeful the rider will stay out of the bill throughout the appropriations process.
The elimination of the GIPSA rider from the appropriations bills is certainly a good first step, but it is a long way from providing protection to livestock producers. Because a previous rider rescinded many of the finalized rules, USDA will need to go back through the rule-making process to bring the rules into effect. Stay tuned to the RAFI website for further updates.
Questions should be directed to James Robinson at 919-542-1396 ext 209. James can also be reached by email at [email protected].