For Immediate Release
Contact: R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard
Phone: 406-252-2516; r-calfusa@r-calfusa.com
WASHINGTON, D.C., July 9, 2025—U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins today announced the immediate closure of southern border ports to livestock trade in response to the escalating threat of New World Screwworm spreading northward from Mexico.
The decision follows urgent calls issued last week by R-CALF USA and 19 of its affiliate organizations to halt livestock imports until Mexico has fully eradicated the disease within its borders.
R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard issued the following statement:
“We applaud Secretary Rollins for taking swift, necessary action to protect the health of the U.S. cattle herd and the integrity of our nation’s food supply. American cattle producers and R-CALF USA have been sounding the alarm about what we viewed as a premature reopening, and it’s clear the secretary has heard the voice of independent producers.
“This is what it looks like to put America first, not cave to global trade interests. Closing the border isn’t just justified, it’s essential.”
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Ranchers Cattlemen Action Legal Fund United Stockgrowers of America (R-CALF USA) is the largest producer-only lobbying and trade association representing U.S. cattle producers. It is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the continued profitability and viability of the U.S. cattle and sheep industries. For more information, visit www.r-calfusa.com or call 406-252-2516.