They manipulate livestock prices and force farmers into unfair contracts. The companies are trying to force ranchers and other farmers into factory farm-style production contracts, as seen in the poultry industry. Farmers get less for their livestock, while consumers pay more for meat in the grocery store. These companies even oppose putting labels on meat so consumers know where their meat comes from. Farmers have a right to the same anti-monopoly protections in the livestock market as there are in the stock market.
Consumers have a right to choose meat from U.S. family farms.
In addition, family farmers face discrimination. Consumers will pay the bill. Access to farm credit has been denied and loan servicing has been unfair in times of crisis. In 1996, USDA appointed a Civil Rights Action Team which issued 92 recommendations. A few recommendations have been implemented, most have only been recognized as problems that still need a real response.