H.R. 1380: Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act

This bill, known as the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act, aims to enhance oversight and enforcement of competition laws in the meat and poultry industries. Here’s a breakdown of its main components:

Establishment of a New Office

The bill proposes the creation of the Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters. This office will be situated within the Packers and Stockyards Division of the Department of Agriculture and will focus on ensuring fair competition in the food and agricultural sectors.

Leadership

The office will be headed by a newly appointed position called the Special Investigator for Competition Matters, who will be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture.

Duties of the Special Investigator

The Special Investigator will have several key responsibilities:

• Conduct investigations and utilize tools such as subpoenas to enforce compliance with the Packers and Stockyards Act.
• Serve as a liaison with the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, coordinating efforts related to competition and trade practices.
• Work in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security concerning national security and critical infrastructure in the food and agricultural industry.
• Maintain a staff of qualified professionals, including attorneys with expertise in the relevant fields.

Prosecutorial Authority

The bill also grants the Special Investigator the authority to initiate civil or administrative actions aimed at enforcing compliance under the Act, circumventing the usual restrictions set out in Title 28 of the United States Code.

Overall Purpose

The primary goal of this legislation is to enhance competition within the meat and poultry sectors, ensuring that market practices are fair and just. By establishing a dedicated office focused on competition matters, the bill intends to bolster regulatory frameworks to protect against anti-competitive behaviors and practices.

Relevant Companies

• TSN (Tyson Foods, Inc.) - As a major player in the meat industry, Tyson could be affected by stricter competition regulations and enforcement regarding pricing and market practices.
• BRFS (Brf S.A.) - This multinational food company engages in the processing of poultry and pork, and could face increased scrutiny and compliance requirements.
• HLF (Herbalife Ltd.) - While not primarily a meat company, if involved in food product supply chains, it may need to adapt to new compliance regulations expected from this Act.