A finalized version of the proposed rule that would give new direction to the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) could come this fall, according to Edward Avalos, USDA undersecretary of Market & Regulatory Programs.

Avalos addressed the final session of the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association's annual convention held last week in Rapid City. While offering optimism that the proposed rule could be finalized this fall, Avalos also warned livestock producers that drastic changes are ahead for USDA as Congress and the president attempt to rein in federal spending. The 2012 Farm Bill will reflect those changes, he says.

Supporters of the GIPSA rule update say it will provide more openness in the market. Opponents say the new rules are unnecessary and will inhibit competition.

"It's not a question of whether or not we're going to have budget reductions," Avalos says. "It's a question of how deep those reductions are going to be."

If Congress cannot pass a budget, the Congressional debt reduction super committee has to propose cuts by Thanksgiving and implement them by the end of the year.

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