Broader Food Recall Rules Sought

Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman is seeking broader authority to recall tainted meat and to fine plants that violate food safety laws.

On the heels of an E. coli outbreak that forced a massive recall of ground beef, Glickman proposed legislation Friday that would allow $100,000 civil fines and improve his agency’s ability to shut down plants that willfully or repeatedly violate meat safety laws.

The safety of other foods is overseen by the Food and Drug Administration, which said it will seek the same new powers from Congress.