Meat associations sue USDA in labeling dispute The American Meat Institute and seven other meat and livestock organizations are suing the federal government to stop the implementation of country of origin labeling, arguing that the mandate violates their members' First Amendment rights. The lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture claims that the agency's labeling requirements constitute forced speech, which is prohibited under the Constitution unless it advances government interest. The groups say USDA has not been able to show such interest given the labeling does nothing to enhance consumer safety. "Segregating and tracking animals according to the countries… Read More