Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act
3/31/2025, 3:10 PMSummary of Bill HR 1380
Bill 119 HR 1380, also known as the "Packers and Stockyards Act Amendment," aims to make changes to the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921. The main goal of this bill is to create the Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters. This office would be responsible for investigating and addressing competition issues within the meatpacking and livestock industries.The bill seeks to enhance competition in these industries by ensuring fair and transparent practices among packers and stockyards. It also aims to prevent anti-competitive behavior and promote a level playing field for all participants in the market.
In addition to establishing the Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters, the bill includes provisions for other purposes related to the Packers and Stockyards Act. These provisions may include measures to improve market transparency, strengthen enforcement mechanisms, and protect the interests of farmers and ranchers. Overall, Bill 119 HR 1380 is designed to address competition concerns within the meatpacking and livestock industries and promote fair and competitive practices among packers and stockyards. It represents a significant effort to ensure a more equitable and transparent marketplace for all stakeholders involved in these industries.
Congressional Summary of HR 1380
Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act
This bill establishes the Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters within the Agricultural Marketing Service's Packers and Stockyards Division.
Specifically, the office must use all available tools (e.g., subpoenas) to investigate and prosecute violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 (P&S Act). Further, the bill grants the office the authority to bring any civil or administrative action authorized by that act.
Additionally, the office must
- serve as a liaison to the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission with respect to competition and trade practices in the food and agricultural sector,
- consult with the Department of Homeland Security on national security and critical infrastructure security in the food and agricultural sector, and
- maintain a staff of attorneys and other professionals with appropriate expertise.
As background, the purposes of the P&S Act are to assure fair competition and trade practices, safeguard farmers and ranchers, protect consumers, and protect livestock, meat, and poultry industry members from unfair, deceptive, unjustly discriminatory, and monopolistic practices. Those engaged in the business of marketing livestock, meat, and poultry in commerce are subject to the P&S Act.
