USCA Supports Strengthening Local Processing Act

Earlier this week, the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association announced its support of The Strengthening Local Processing Act. Introduced last month, the legislation will increase local livestock and poultry producers' options and assist smaller facilities as they adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and expand to meet consumer demand. The legislation was introduced by Representative Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, and Jeff Fortenberry, a Nebraska Republican, in the U.S. House.

USCA Vice President Justin Tupper of South Dakota said, “Local and regional meat processors are critical in securing our nation’s food supply, and by offering this technical and financial assistance, we can better help set them up for success.”

USCA said four multinational meatpacking companies control over 80% of the meatpacking business in the U.S., adding, "expanding the reach of independent processors brings more competition to the marketplace." The legislation will increase the federal share of state inspection costs from 50%-60% and for Cooperative Interstate Shipment facilities from 60%-80%, encouraging more states to operate state inspection programs.

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