The D.C.-based Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) is calling on USDA's acting general counsel to investigate whether there is a potential conflict-of-interest in allowing Dudley Butler, administrator of USDA's Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, to participate in rule-making designed to regulate meat and poultry marketing in the United States.
CREW maintains that Butler once boasted about putting in place regulations that make it easier to sue meat and poultry companies. "Prior to joining the administration, Mr. Butler's legal practice involved suing the companies he now regulates," says CREW in a statement.
"When he took office, President Obama issued an order closing the revolving door that allowed departing executive branch officials to cash in on their government service," CREW Executive Director Melanie Sloan notes in the statement. "While the new policy was aimed at those who lobby after leaving office, the same rationale applies here. Mr. Butler stands to benefit financially once he leaves the government by exploiting a loophole he helped create," Sloan adds.
