SD HCR6016

Urges South Dakota's congressional delegation to support the bipartisan Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act of 2025 (S. 1848 and H.R. 3516) to reform the federal beef checkoff program

Cites industry declines since the 1985 checkoff began: U.S. beef cows dropped from 35.4 million to 27.9 million, per capita consumption fell from 77 pounds to 56-58 pounds, and meatpacking concentration increased from 50% to 85%

Criticizes the current checkoff structure for conflicts of interest, lack of transparency, and funding organizations like the National Cattlemen's Beef Association that support policies many producers oppose

Supports reforms requiring transparent budgets, detailed contract records, periodic USDA audits, and prohibiting contracts with entities that influence government policy (except higher education)

Calls for periodic producer votes on the checkoff program and prioritizing "America First" policies in checkoff activities over generic beef promotion