By Blake Jackson
The House of Representatives has passed a new Farm Bill that includes a pilot program for the PRIME Act. This program focuses on helping farmers sell locally raised meat directly to consumers. The bill passed with a vote of 224-200, showing strong support for improving local food systems.
"I am excited to announce that a pilot program for the PRIME Act is included in this year’s Farm Bill," said Rep. Thomas Massie. "This means consumers can soon expect increased access to locally raised and processed beef, pork, and lamb sold directly from farmers, and farmers will no longer be burdened by the hefty and costly U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) constraints that force them to drive hundreds of miles with their animals to the few and sparse USDA facilities, as currently required."
The PRIME Act pilot program allows states to approve custom-exempt slaughter facilities to sell meat directly to customers within the same state. This change gives farmers more flexibility and reduces the need to rely on limited federal processing centers.
The program includes strict labeling rules. Meat products must clearly show details such as the processing facility, animal owner, location of origin, and date of slaughter. Labels must also inform buyers that the product has not been inspected by federal authorities and cannot be resold.
Facilities must follow important safety and health standards. These include rules under the Humane Methods Slaughter Act and other federal and state regulations. Regular inspections will be conducted by both federal and local authorities to ensure compliance.
"A healthy America begins with what we eat," Rep. Massie continued. "I am committed to making better food accessible for all families and advancing policies that empower consumers, support local farmers, and strengthen our nation’s food system."
The pilot program aims to support small farmers, improve local food access, and create more opportunities within the livestock industry.
Legislative text for the PRIME Act pilot program is available at this link.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-luoman
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy, Livestock, Beef Cattle