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MARCH 2019
M O N TA N A
GRASS ROOTS F E E D I N G T H E F U T U R E T H R O U G H F A R M E R S U N I O N E D U C AT I O N A P U B L I C AT I O N B Y M O N TA N A F A R M E R S U N I O N
MFU RALLIES IN SUPPORT OF COOL LEGISLATION Two bills addressing Country of Origin labeling(COOL) were introduced this legislative session. Both bills, SB 206 and HB 594 would require Country of Origin placarding for beef and pork products sold at Montana retailers. In February, members traveled to Helena to testify on SB 206. MFU supported the bill with amendments stressing the consumer’s knowledge of the origin of the meat as the key to transparency. Members Erik Somerfeld, Jeff Bangs and Will Downs testified on the bill. In addition representatives from Northern Plains Resource Council and the Montana Cattlemen’s Association testified. Member Jeff Bangs provided a history for the committee on COOL and the reason behind MFU’s backing of the bill. “We support this bill with the amendment because consumers have shown us that they will choose U.S. beef and pork and will pay for it if given the opportunity to do so,” said Bangs.
MFU delegation at the state capitol for committee hearing on SB 206
PAID
GREAT FALLS, MT PERMIT NO. 93
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE
SB 206 also addressed labeling in regards to cell cultured meat. Member Will Downs said the inclusion of cell cultured meat coming into the market is yet another reason to have country of origin labeling.“Cell cultured meat will be a viable option to produce meat and something we should consider and take serious when labeling meat.” C O N T I N U E D PA G E 5
IN THE MARCH EDITION... PAGE 6 MFU Members Talk National Women’s Conference