We firmly believe the Committee should move this legislation forward. Time on the legislative calendar is growing extremely short. It is critical that Congress act swiftly in order to get a bill enacted this year. It will level the economic playing field for small businesses and help small meat processors grow and expand into new markets.
Current law places small meat processors at a competitive disadvantage.
This is unfair. This will create jobs and stimulate the rural economy. Without change, growing concentration in the processing sector will continue to leave smaller farmers and ranchers with fewer buyers for their livestock and poultry, further depressing their financial situation which is already stressed by low commodity prices. Increasing the viability of state meat and poultry inspection will improve food safety and enhance consumer confidence in our food supply. It does not make sense to allow these products across state borders while beef, pork, and lamb cannot be shipped interstate.