What is a certified nominating organization? How does an organization become certified?

A certified nominating organization represents beef and dairy producers in each state or region. The organization must be certified by the Secretary of Agriculture in order to nominate a Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) member. The organization must apply for certification and show that at least a majority of its paid membership are cattle producers, that its membership includes a substantial number of producers who produce a substantial number of cattle, that it has a history of stability and permanency and that the primary purpose of the organization is to promote the economic welfare of cattle producers. In states where there is more than one certified organization, they are encouraged to caucus to select a nominee.