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Optimizing the Cattle Market Act of 2021

Two U.S. Representatives from Missouri, from both sides of the aisle, have introduced a bill to allow for greater price discovery and transparency in the cattle market.

Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, a Democrat, says it’s critical to help Missouri and all cattle ranchers after their valiant efforts to keep food on the tables of Americans during the pandemic.

Republican Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler says the bill will equip producers with more tools and information to succeed. She says the Optimizing the Cattle Market Act will restore accountability in the industry.

If enacted, the bill would direct the (USDA) to create a cattle formula contracts library and increase the reporting window for “cattle committed” from seven to 14 days.

The bill would also require USDA, in consultation with the Chief Economist, to establish mandated minimums for regional negotiated cash and negotiated grid live cattle trade.

This bill is a companion to Senator Deb Fischer’s similar legislation.