Bill > S1312

This bill establishes the Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters within the Department of Agriculture, which will be led by a senior career employee appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. The Special Investigator will have broad powers to investigate and prosecute violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act, focusing on competition and trade practices in the food and agriculture sector. Specifically, the investigator can use subpoenas and bring civil or administrative actions against packers and live poultry dealers, while coordinating with the Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, and Department of Homeland Security. The office will maintain a staff of attorneys and professionals with relevant expertise, and will serve as a liaison between various government agencies to address competition issues. The Special Investigator must notify the Attorney General when bringing actions in federal district court, and is limited to investigating only entities regulated under the Packers and Stockyards Act. This new office aims to enhance oversight and enforcement of fair competition in the meat and poultry industries by providing a dedicated investigative unit within the Department of Agriculture.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1312/all-info