USDA Settles a Packers and Stockyards Case with Joe Dax Tyler

WASHINGTON, July 19, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) entered into a stipulation agreement with Joe Dax Tyler of Muldrow, Okla., on June 11, 2024, for alleged violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. Under the terms of the stipulation agreement, Tyler waived his right to a hearing and paid a penalty of $3,450.<_o3a_p>

An investigation by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) revealed that Tyler failed to pay timely for his livestock purchases at three livestock markets. Tyler issued nine non-sufficient funds checks for livestock payments. Tyler's payments were seven to 21 days late.<_o3a_p>

The P&S Act requires subject entities to issue the full payment for livestock by the close of the first business day following purchase and transfer of possession. Failure to timely pay for livestock purchases violates the P&S Act.<_o3a_p>

The P&S Act authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to assess civil penalties up to $34,995 per violation against any person after notice and opportunity for hearing on the record. USDA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right to a hearing and enter into a stipulation agreement to resolve alleged violations quickly.<_o3a_p>

The P&S Act is a fair-trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat and poultry industries.<_o3a_p>

For further information about the Packers and Stockyards Act, contact Amy Blechinger, Packers and Stockyards Division, at (202) 720-5877 or by email at [email protected].

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