NCBA President J.D. Alexander said the rule is good for the industry and good for the checkoff. He said the proposed rule would ensure cattlemen are getting the best return on their investment.

"NCBA supports an open and transparent checkoff program that is producer driven. This proposed rule would simply enhance this quest," said Alexander. "We support a competitive checkoff contracting system that ensures producers are getting the absolute best return on their investment.

We believe a multitude of ideas coming from several different organizations will enhance creativity and innovation regarding techniques to build and defend beef demand. Along with ideas, contractors must come to the table with the know-how and the resources to transform ideas into reality."

Independent research conducted by the Cattlemen's Beef Board released in January shows that beef producer support for the checkoff is higher than it has been in 18 years.

Seventy-six percent of producers support the checkoff, saying the checkoff "influences beef demand, contributes to their profitability and represents their interests." Four of five producers say that the beef checkoff is of value to them and two of three believe it is well managed.

Alexander said the proposed rule will likely escalate producer confidence in the checkoff.

"The end-game is to make absolute certain that the very best initiatives to increase and solidify demand for U.S. beef are pursued. The proposed rule would allow more ideas to be brought to the table for consideration. It is cut and dry," said Alexander.

Comments on the proposed rule must be submitted to the Federal Register by May 1. 

—From Beltway Beef Newsletter