Market Agencies Selling on Commission; Purchases From Consignment

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) is seeking comments from the public regarding regulations issued under the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, as amended and supplemented (P&S Act). GIPSA regulations address circumstances under which a market agency is allowed to sell livestock on a commission basis to its owners, officers, and employees. There may be some need to update this regulation to address current marketing practices. GIPSA would like to determine whether additional information is needed in clarifying the circumstances under which key employees of the market agency, those designated as an auctioneer, weighmaster, or salesman, may purchase livestock.