Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Beef Checkoff Program Petition Process

1. What is the difference between a petition and a referendum?

A petition authorized by the Beef Research and Information Act (Beef Act) (7 U.S.C. 2901-2911), is a formal written request from eligible beef producers for the Secretary to hold a referendum on the Beef Order.  If a petition receives the required number of valid signatures, the Secretary will consider whether to publish referendum procedures and hold a referendum. In a referendum, eligible individuals/organizations would vote to determine if the Beef Order would be terminated or suspended.

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