Producers of 100 percent USDA-certified organic products are exempt from most commodity checkoffs, based on separate legislation, but they must meet strict requirements and reapply for certification on an annual basis.
According to the Beef Promotion and Research Act, no other producer is exempt from the Beef Checkoff. Buyers who resell cattle no more than 10 days from the date of purchase may file a non-producer status form and avoid paying an additional dollar. They are, however, responsible for remitting collected funds and reporting any transactions to the Qualified State Beef Council.
Persons in non-compliance with the Act and Order are subject to a civil penalty of up to $12,722 per transaction, plus unremitted checkoff dollars and interest.