National Farmers Union

WASHINGTON (July 29, 2010) – The National Farmers Union (NFU) joined four agricultural and livestock groups responding to Federation of State Beef Councils Chairman Scott George and the proposal for restructuring governance between the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Federation of State Beef Councils.

NCBA received audit results earlier in the week examining all checkoff expenses. The audit was performed by an independent firm brought in by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB). Errors were acknowledged by NCBA officers and it was agreed that stronger policies need to be put into place when addressing checkoff expenses.

“NFU commends the CBB for assisting in the audit and pushing for further evaluation, with a more comprehensive compliance review,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “We are encouraging CBB to complete further review in an expedited manner and support the findings going public.”

The joint letter further addressed the CBB audit and indicators that NCBA has substantially breached the financial firewall and did not maintain sufficient documentation differentiating between the policy and checkoff sides of the organization. The CBB has made the decision to conduct a more comprehensive compliance review.

“NCBA governance structure changes are a concern to several agricultural and livestock organizations,” said Johnson. “An appropriate checkoff program with the right financial, operational and governance structure is important for everyone.”

NFU is continuing dialogue with NCBA, CBB and other agricultural and livestock leaders to ensure producers benefit from a revised checkoff program.

National Farmers Union has been working since 1902 to protect and enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities through advocating grassroots-driven policy positions adopted by its membership.

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To read the letter, click here
Click here for PDF version of news release

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