Recent Press Releases

Washington, DC —  Senator John Thune today made the following statement regarding the two year delay of Country of Origin Labeling (COOL):

"This most recent delay in country of origin labeling is unacceptable. I am very disappointed with this unfavorable decision," said Thune. "This delay hurts South Dakota's cattle producers and treats consumers with disdain. I will continue to work with my colleagues who support mandatory COOL."

The two year delay of COOL was added to the Agricultural Appropriations Conference Report. Senator Thune led the fight in the House Agriculture Committee to add mandatory COOL to the 2002 Farm Bill. Earlier this year, he cosponsored legislation to move up the implementation date. This week Senator Thune signed a letter to the House and Senate Agriculture Appropriation Conferees voicing support to keep COOL on track.