Statement by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association 
Regarding Country of Origin Labeling Resolution
 
February 5, 2003
 
“The NCBA Board of Directors approved a resolution on Country of Origin Labeling that calls for increased communication between producers and government, more opportunities to provide input on the program, and additional educational information for producers.
 
“The resolution passed last week is based upon the growing concerns that have been expressed regarding the implementation of the law.  NCBA has historically believed that the impacts of this program must be carefully evaluated, and more information must be exchanged between policymakers and cattle producers prior to implementation of a mandatory Country of Origin program.  This resolution will help achieve those objectives.
 
“The resolution passed at the NBCA Board of Directors meeting on February 1 held in conjunction with the 2003 Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville.”
 
The formal resolution is below:
 
	WHEREAS, many serious concerns about mandatory Country of Origin Labeling have arisen since the passage of the 2002 Farm Bill,
 
	WHEREAS, there is increasing recognition about the many adverse aspects of Country of Origin Labeling including the costs, benefits and impact of Country of Origin Labeling relative to tracking, auditing, verification and compliance,
 
	WHEREAS, NCBA policy does not support mandatory labeling but remains in support of Country of Origin labeling that is voluntary and industry driven, 
 
	THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that NCBA shall, with regard to implementation of mandatory Country of Origin Labeling:
 
1.	Request Congressional hearings to investigate the impact of Country of Origin Labeling, 
2.	Request USDA hold field hearings to increase awareness about Country of Origin Labeling, 
3.	Develop educational and informational messages to inform producers about Country of Origin Labeling, and 
4.	Work with state cattle associations and related groups to communicate this message. 
 
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Producer-directed and consumer-focused, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is the trade association of America’s cattle farmers and ranchers, and the marketing organization for the largest segment of the nation’s food and fiber industry.