BISMARCK, N.D. (KUMV) - Efforts by some to change the Beef Commission Act failed during the latest legislative session. Now the Rancher’s Rights Initiative is suing Governor Kelly Armstrong and the North Dakota Beef Commission over their process for appointing members.

The Beef Commission was created in 1973, using checkoff funding to promote the beef industry for consumers. Checkoffs are funds paid for cattle sold. Today, ranchers pay $2 per head, with $1.50 going towards the state commission.

Nine members sit on the commission, six of whom are part of various state associations like the Stockmen’s Association. The other three are at-large representatives appointed by the governor.

In the lawsuit filed by the Rancher’s Rights Initiative, they argue that unaffiliated ranchers are not ge

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