Senators seek details on possible meat inspection furloughs

A group of U.S senators led by Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) is asking USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to clarify how meat inspectors can be furloughed under sequestration and provide the legal rationale that would allow it to occur. "Furloughing meat inspectors may shut down meat and poultry facilities and harm workers, farmers, and consumers. I find it hard to believe that reductions can’t be made elsewhere in the department that don’t impact health and safety," Grassley said in a statement.  Read More