The following are some basic responsibilities for swine contractors. Please refer to the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, as amended and supplemented, and the Regulations issued there under, for a complete list of legal responsibilities.

Unfair Practices. It shall be unlawful for any swine contractor to engage in or use any unfair, unjustly discriminatory, or deceptive practice or device.

Records. Every swine contractor shall keep such accounts, records, and memoranda as fully and correctly disclose all transactions involved in his/her business, including the true ownership of such business. The records must by maintained for two full years, or longer if instructed by the Administrator.

Inspection of Business Records and Facilities. Each swine contractor, upon proper request, shall permit authorized representatives of the Secretary of Agriculture to enter its place of business during normal business hours and to examine records pertaining to its business subject to the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 (P&S Act).

Information About Business. Each swine contractor, upon proper request, shall give the Secretary of Agriculture or his authorized representatives, within a reasonable time (specified in the request), any information about its business, in writing or otherwise, and under oath or affirmation, which may be required in order to carry out the provisions of the P&S Act and regulations.

Last updated 03/11/2009