Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) issued comments in opposition of the proposed revisions to the National Organic Program, because both organic and non-organic livestock and poultry producers would face adverse impacts if the rules were implemented.
The comment period ended yesterday and nearly 6,000 comments were submitted since the draft rule was announced in April, according to Agri-Pulse.
“We urge the Department to clarify organic label and brand information, educate consumers about organic food production practices, create flexibility in standards for livestock and poultry production and encourage participation in science-based animal welfare certification programs,” wrote TFB Associate Director of Commodity and Regulatory Activities Tracy Tomascik.
Several agricultural organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, also submitted comments in opposition to the rule.
“The standards of a food-marketing program should not compromise the safety of food products or the health and welfare of animals,” Tomascik wrote. “The implications of this rule do not uniformly impact the industry and will have detrimental effects on the supply and consumption of organic products. Organic growers will struggle with lost production and increased costs.”
The proposed rule raises concerns over whether the expanded outdoor space requirements of this proposal will trigger additional compliance requirements and costs for organic poultry and livestock producers under the Clean Water Act and its implementing regulations.
“Texas Farm Bureau strongly advocates for the proper care of livestock and poultry, and our members are committed to ensuring the well-being of the animals on their farms and ranches. We support the ability of livestock and poultry organizations to develop voluntary national production standards. Those standards should be properly researched and recommended by animal production specialists and veterinary experts,” he wrote.