Angie Craig: “As a result of that, I am offering an amendment tonight that would, in essence, set this provision aside. I am talking…”

“As a result of that, I am offering an amendment tonight that would, in essence, set this provision aside. I am talking about that provision of the section entitled "the prohibition on packer ownership feeding or controlling livestock." It is clear to me and to many others that there are a great many questions being asked at this moment about the scope of the language and its potential impact on the meatpacker and the livestock producer. In fact, much has been written on both sides with respect to the legal and economic ramifications of the language. This fact lends greater credence to my suggestion in this amendment that we approach a complete study by USDA of the intent of this language and what it would mean in these kinds of new owner relationships. Since the Senate approved the language in December, I am sure many have heard from those in favor of and opposed to the language. Seldom have I heard such impassioned opinions on any given issue.”