Warnick bill would beef up state's cattle industry

OLYMPIA — The state Senate approved legislation from 13th District Sen. Judy Warnick that would help promote the state’s beef industry.

Senate Bill 5793, also known as the “Beef Check Off,” would make changes to the per-head assessment for the Washington Beef Commission and generate more funding to expand markets.

The measure was approved by a vote of 30 to 19 and was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

“The main source of funding for the state Beef Commission is a per-head assessment on cattle. This bill increases that assessment for a good reason,” Warnick said. “The commission provides valuable services for our cattlemen and this legislation will help promote our beef industry during what are challenging times.”

The bill would require that the commission report to the Legislature on how the funds are used to support this critical economic sector. According to the Beef Commission, the industry as a whole contributes over $5 billion to Washington’s economy.

“In recent years, the beef industry has had some hard times, and the commission’s work is critical to promote this cornerstone of the state’s economy,” added Warnick.