The following statement may be attributed to Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Craig Hill:

"Iowa farmers appreciate the leadership of our U.S. Senators, Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, for their efforts raising awareness of farmers’ concerns about transparency and pricing in the cattle market and their comments during today’s U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry hearing seeking to establish a fair and transparent marketplace. 

Farmers face countless risks and challenges raising the food, fuel and fiber that sustain America, but concerns about equal market access and unfair practices should not be one of them and deserves examination.  Livestock producers’ livelihood depend on providing care for animals and ensuring a healthy and safe product for consumers, and it’s essential they receive equal opportunities when marketing their animals.  Today, many cattle farmers are taking a loss on each animal raised, while grocery store prices continue to rise.  Trust in our food supply chain is essential; and livestock producers deserve a transparent marketplace to have confidence in the system.”