Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced his co-sponsorship of the “H.R. 5818 Country of Origin Labeling Enforcement Act of 2025” (COOL Enforcement Act), legislation introduced by Congresswoman Liz Cheney’s colleague, Congresswoman Hageman of Wyoming. The bill seeks to strengthen labeling requirements for U.S. beef by clarifying that products marketed as “Product of the USA” must be both raised and processed domestically.
“America first means American beef first, and to me that means Montana beef first,” Zinke said. “Americans are becoming more aware of where their food is grown, raised, and produced, and Montana has a great reputation for quality and healthy food. Shoppers should be 100% confident at the point of purchase that what they are getting is what they meant to buy.”
Under the proposed legislation, imported beef that is only minimally processed or packaged in the United States would no longer qualify as “Product of the USA.” The bill is designed to ensure transparency at the meat counter and protect the integrity of Montana’s ranching industry.
Zinke emphasized that the legislation comes at a critical time for American ranchers facing increased competition from imported beef, which may not adhere to the same production or safety standards as U.S.-raised beef. “If it’s marketed as American beef, it should be born, raised, and processed here at home,” Zinke said.
The congressman’s support for the COOL Enforcement Act continues his record of advocating for Montana’s agricultural and ranching communities, aiming to preserve market opportunities for local producers and strengthen consumer confidence in U.S. beef.
By: DNU staff