June 13, 2001
		USDA Cited in Slaughter Violations The union of federal meat inspectors disclosed Wednesday that slaughterhouses are butchering cows and pigs while the animals are still conscious despite a federal law that requires the animals to be rendered unconscious. According to a petition being filed with the USDA by the union and animal advocacy organizations, the meat industry neglects the law "with virtual impunity" because of lax enforcement by the Agriculture Department. The petition stated that inspectors should be stationed around the clock in areas of the facilities where animals are stunned and bled. Further, they stated that plant operations should be stopped any time there are violations of humane handling regulations. According to Arthur Hughes, a spokesperson for the National Joint Council of Food Inspection Locals, "it's not a top priority. It's not a medium priority. It's not a priority at all." Hughes went to state that training of new inspectors is so poor many inspectors don't even know the Humane Slaughter Act exists. The drafting of the petition was inspired by violations committed by a IBP beef slaughterhouse in Wallula, WA. Washington state prosecutors declined to file charges against the slaughterhouse, despite proof of egregious violations.