Pushback on USDA's electronic tagging for livestock

Congress called to act against livestock E-Tag rule

A coalition of 46 farming, ranching, and food groups, led by R-CALF USA, is pressing Congress to block an impending USDA rule mandating electronic ear tags for adult cattle and bison crossing state lines. This rule, effective from November 2024, modifies the existing Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) protocol, which many believe is sufficiently effective.

The mandated electronic identification (EID) has been criticized for potentially burdening smaller producers and consolidating the food supply chain under major meatpacking firms, thus threatening national food security.

Opponents contend the rule is less about animal health and more about profit margins for multinational corporations and technology firms involved in the production of tagging systems.

This initiative has sparked significant backlash, with claims that it would cover only 11% of cattle in the event of a disease outbreak, casting doubts on its overall utility.

Groups are rallying behind legislation such as H.J.Res.167, S.J.Res.98, and S.4282 to counteract the mandate, with considerable support already mounting in the House.

Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA, highlights the extensive opposition from producers and stresses the importance of congressional action to prevent the potentially detrimental impact of this rule on the livelihoods of American ranchers and farmers.