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Minimal Risk Rule for Canadian Cattle Goes Into Effect

R-Calf USA was opposed to the minimal-risk rule and concerned by what they felt was premature adoption of the rule allowing cattle older than 30 months of age into the U.S.

During the 60-day waiting period, resolutions of disapproval were introduced into both houses of Congress. Had they been passed, they would have essentially reversed the BSE Minimal Risk Rule.

Without follow-through by Congress, R-Calf sued the USDA to stop implementation of the rule. A request for a temporary restraining order was filed Friday in an attempt to stop importation of Canadian cattle over 30 months of age until R-Calf's lawsuit for a preliminary injunction could be heard.

Max Thornsberry, President of R-Calf says that while they hoped for action on their suit before Monday, the important thing is to get a favorable ruling that will stop the importation of Canadian cattle over 30 months old, until Canada demonstrates the ability to effectively enact BSE mitigation measures to prevent the continued spread of BSE.