Key Facts

• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations are reported to be affecting cattle shipments in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
• Thousands of cattle shipments to processors have been delayed, resulting in millions of dollars in lost revenue and added costs.
• The cattle industry groups say these enforcement actions disrupt workers and operations at feedyards, dairies, processors, transportation, and related services.
• The Department of Homeland Security stated that ICE is not conducting worksite raids in Kansas but is targeting criminals with serious convictions.
• Beef prices are already high, with ground beef averaging $6.92 per pound in August, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• President Donald Trump’s administration faces pressure over beef prices and is investigating pricing practices at major retailers.
• Cattle groups ask for immigration enforcement to be done in a lawful and orderly way to minimize industry disruption and protect animal welfare.
• The disruptions add to existing challenges in the cattle and beef supply chain, affecting production beyond the immediate enforcement actions.