SPEARFISH, S.D. (WNAX) – The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association is voicing its opposition to the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act that’s been introduced in both houses of Congress. Cattlemen’s President Eric Jennings of Spearfish says the measure seeks to eliminate all checkoff programs.

Supporters of the legislation say the checkoff programs are not transparent. However, Jennings refutes that claim.

He says the funds collected for the beef checkoff aren’t used to influence policy despite charges by those supporting the OFF Act.

Jennings says backers of the bill also have an anti-agriculture agenda and support animal rights issues.

The legislation would prohibit trade groups that lobby from receiving checkoff funds.

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