End the monopoly of 4 meat processing companies in United States (3 are foreign-owned), over-regulation by USDA, and support LOCAL farmers and small-scale meat processing facilities. The PRIME Act (Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption Act / https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2814) was introduced by Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) in 2020. This legislation aims to alleviate burdensome regulations on small-scale meat processing facilities, particularly those that operate within a single state and do not transport products across state lines.
Key Provisions
- Exemption from Federal Inspection: The PRIME Act would exempt small-scale meat processing facilities from federal inspection requirements if they operate within a single state and do not transport products across state lines.
- State and Local Regulation: The bill would allow these facilities to comply with state and local regulations instead of federal regulations, reducing the regulatory burden.
- Increased Competition: By reducing regulatory hurdles, the PRIME Act seeks to increase competition in the meat processing industry, benefiting small-scale farmers and ranchers who currently face limited options for processing their products locally.
Impact
- Job Creation: The PRIME Act could lead to the creation of new jobs in rural areas, as small-scale meat processing facilities expand to meet demand.
- Increased Access to Local Meat: Consumers would have greater access to locally raised, pasture-fed, and grass-fed meat products, supporting local economies and promoting sustainable agriculture.
- Reduced Concentration: By allowing more small-scale processing facilities to operate, the PRIME Act could reduce the concentration of the meat processing industry, making it more resilient to disruptions and crises.