WASHINGTON, May 29, 2008 - On March 21, 2008, the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a decision and order by reason of default with Mark Wright (Wright), Springer, New Mexico.

Wright has been ordered to cease and desist from engaging in operations subject to the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act without being properly registered with the Secretary of Agriculture and without first obtaining the required bond or bond equivalent.

The default decision resolves charges that were filed on September 13, 2007, in which GIPSA alleged that Wright bought livestock in commerce on a commission basis without maintaining a bond as required by the P&S Act.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.

Catherine M. Grasso 202-720-7201