Last week, USDA released a proposed rule to expand the range of cattle and beef imports from Canada. According to NCBA Chief Executive Officer Terry Stokes, NCBA will consider the details of the proposed rule and many related factors before establishing policy at the 2007 Cattle Industry Convention, which begins Jan. 31 in Nashville. This policy will also determine NCBA’s comments on the proposed rule, which are due March 12. 
 
Cut #1 :23  Outcue: "...next few weeks."

NCBA is also having a scientific and economic analysis conducted on the proposed rule, as well as the background materials and USDA’s risk assessment.

Cut #2 :17  Outcue: "...this very issue."

While NCBA supports, science-based trade, many factors must be considered with this rule.

Cut #3 :22  Outcue: "...conditions are addressed."

For example, U.S. cattlemen are still rebuilding lost export markets, and can’t tolerate additional setbacks.

Cut #4 :38  Outcue: "...all over again."

Fair and reliable trade is what NCBA is looking for, but it needs to be a two-way street .

Cut #5 :31  Outcue: "...international guidelines."

Exports to Mexico and Canada are expanding, but progress needs to be made with other trading partners as well.

Cut #6 :40  Outcue: "...acceptable to U.S. cattlemen."