I am working with a group of organizations on an amendment to the Farm Bill (sponsored by Senators Grassley (R-IA) and Conrad (D-ND) that would ban packer ownership or control of livestock (cattle/hogs) (except for a window of 14 days before the livestock go to slaughter). There are exceptions for small-scale packers (less than 120,000 animals per year) and cooperatives or entities owned by cooperatives.
The Farm Bill is in play in the Senate right now - if negotiations on amendments do not blow-up, the amendment process with start next week. The House may begin marking up its version of the Farm Bill the week of June 19.
Thanks,