WHY DID THE ORGANIC CHICKEN CROSS THE ROAD? TO SEE THE PROPOSED LIVESTOCK WELFARE RULES IN THE NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM

Article Written By: Kael Bowling

On April 13, 2016, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (“USDA”) Agricultural Marketing Service (“AMS”) proposed major regulatory revisions to improve the welfare of organic livestock. In response to that proposal, some industry members argued the regulations contradict congressional intent and exceed agency authority. This Article addresses the industry members’ arguments in turn. Part II of this Comment examines the general legislative and regulatory structure pertaining to organics. Part III then outlines current regulatory and statutory standards specifically related to organic livestock production. Part IV explains the proposed rule’s changes to the current system and concludes by arguing that the proposed rules do not contradict congressional intent or exceed agency authority.

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