US Sens. Tina Smith (D-MN) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) recently reintroduced the Strengthening Local Processing Act, legislation that would provide support to America’s small meat and poultry processors to help strengthen and upgrade their operations. The bill would provide training, education and technical assistance grants to help small processing plants improve and streamline their operations. Additionally, it would open new markets by allowing inspector-approved meat products to be sold across state lines.

“Minnesota is proud to be the largest turkey producer in the country, and we know that a strong meat and poultry processing industry is critical to maintaining a stable economy, especially for Minnesota’s farmers,” said Smith. “Right now, just a handful of large companies have come to dominate the industry, which means higher prices for consumers and shrinking earnings for farmers. I’m glad to introduce this bill with Senator Thune to help even the playing field for local Minnesota meat and poultry processers, expand business markets for small producers, and keep food local for Minnesotans at the grocery store.”

“South Dakota’s producers work hard to raise high-quality livestock and play a critical role in our nation’s food supply,” said Thune. “It’s important that we invest in expanding local processing capabilities to help them meet consumer demand. My legislation would help our small meat and poultry processors bolster their operations and provide them with more local marketing opportunities.”

“The National Deer Association is proud to support the Strengthening Local Processing Act, as this bill would provide necessary resources for bolstering our nation’s small and very small meat processors,” said Nick Pinizzotto, chief executive officer of the NDA. “These businesses are responsible for the bulk of our country’s custom-exempt wild game processing, which is fundamental to our ability to both manage deer populations and process that lean, natural protein. We appreciate Sen. Thune’s leadership on this issue and look forward to working with him to get this bill to the president’s desk.” 

Four large meat-packing companies control 85% of the beef market. In poultry, the top four processing firms control 54% of the market, while in in pork, the top four processing firms control about 70% of the market. 

Companion legislation was introduced in the US House of Representatives by Reps. Jim Baird (R-Ind.) and Chellie Pingree (D-Maine).

Source: Office of Sen. Tina Smith