On June 29, 2015, under President Obama’s direction, the USDA approved a rule change to allow for fresh beef to be imported from Brazil and Argentina. The importation of fresh beef has the potential to devastate our domestic beef supply by introducing the deadly foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) to our herds and closing down our beef export markets.
The U.S. has not had an FMD outbreak since 1929. Cases of FMD in Brazil have been confirmed as recently as 2011. Brazil is still using a form of live FMD viral vaccine. USDA inspectors have not verified a quarantine protocol standard that will be secure and have the ability to ensure the prevention of this devastating disease from entering our nation’s food supply.
Estimates of economic loss are projected at more than $100 billion. We must do everything we can to protect our national beef supply. Congressman Ted Yoho (R–FL 3rd District) asks ranchers to show their opposition to this rule change by signing a petition he has posted online. To read the letter and sign, click here.
Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association
To Honor and Protect the Ranching Way of Life
PO BOX 101988
FORT WORTH, TX 76185
1-800-242-7820
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