USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack told members of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation that the department has explored all options to bring the controversial country of origin labeling rule into compliance with the World Trade Organization standards by May 1, but has found no ways to fix it. The Des Moines Register reports that Congress has directed the USDA to make changes to the rule after several WTO hearings have gone against the United States and in favor of Canada and Mexico.
Even after changes were made to the original rule, the WTO determined the latest COOL rule provided less favorable treatment to livestock from Canada and Mexico. The United States has appealed the decision.