The Congressional and Senate Chicken Caucuses have jointly urged the USDA to extend the implementation period for the latest Packers and Stockyards Act rule, "Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments," by 180 days.
This rule, finalized on November 28, 2023, with a compliance deadline of February 12, 2024, introduces significant disclosure requirements, contract changes, new definitions, and oversight system demands, posing substantial challenges for compliance. The letters highlight concerns about the tight compliance timeline, emphasizing the need for ample time to understand and meet the rule's provisions. The House letter, spearheaded by Representatives Steve Womack and Jim Costa, gathered 45 signatures, while the Senate letter, led by Senators Chris Coons and Roger Wicker, acquired 19 signatures. Both letters advocate for the extension to ensure stakeholders and constituents can adequately navigate and comply with the rule's complexities.
