The state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is revising proposed fee increases for the livestock industry. This is after receiving strong public feedback.
“During the public comment period for the rule revisions for ATCP 10 and 12, DATCP received hundreds of public comments, and we’re taking those to heart,” says Dan Richter, public information officer with DATCP. “Based on the feedback we received, we are now making modifications to those proposed administrative rules.”
Six of Wisconsin’s leading agricultural organizations have issued a united statement on the new efforts to scale back or remove the fee increases originally proposed in ATCP 10 and 12. This includes the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Cattlemen’s Association, Pork Association, Dairy Business Association, Cheese Makers Association, and Veterinary Medical Association. The groups thanked the hundreds of farmers and stakeholders who engaged with DATCP and state legislators throughout the process.
The organizations also extended appreciation to DATCP and legislators for listening to the concerns around the proposed solutions. The groups emphasize that if passed, the fee increases would have had a major impact on farmers, sales barns, truckers, and ultimately, consumers.
Richter said one of the most common messages from the public was to lower the originally proposed fee increases.
“People value these programs that protect animal health and human health,” he explained. “But they felt they weren’t self-sustaining just on fees from the industry alone.”
DATCP staff are now reviewing the comments and preparing changes to present at an upcoming DATCP board meeting. Richter says it remains to be seen whether it happens before the end of this year. He notes the rulemaking process takes up to two years or more.
“As this process continues, it is essential that any fee structure reflects the financial realities of farmers and ranchers, while ensuring that critical health and food safety programs remain effective,” the agricultural groups wrote. “Exploring alternative funding sources, outside of fee increases, will be key to sustaining these vital programs without placing undue strain on the agricultural community.”
