(JUNE 16, 2022) – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7606, the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act, on a 221-204 vote.
Seven Republicans joined their Democratic colleagues to support the package of bills, including Reps. Dusty Johnson (SD-At Large), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02), Ashley Hinson (IA-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), Adam Kinzinger (IL-16), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), and Vicky Hartzler (MO-04).
U.S. Cattlemen’s Association (USCA) President Brooke Miller applauded the bipartisan effort to enhance national food security through several key provisions:
“The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act will bring much needed resources to the U.S Department of Agriculture to fight corruption in the meat and livestock industry. As independent processing capacity increases from an infusion of financial resources and technical support provided by the Administration, we will need watchful eyes at USDA to ensure that the multinational meat giants compete fairly in the marketplace.
“Finally, the Butcher Block Act – included in today’s package of bills – will provide more opportunities for our small and mid-sized processors to succeed in a business with incredibly high barriers to entry. Through cost-share and grant programs, this bill expands regional processing capacity, which increases competition in the meat packing industry – leading to improved marketing options for livestock producers.
“USCA would like to express our sincere thanks to Rep. Abigail Spanberger of Virginia for bringing this bill across the finish line today. We urge Senate leaders to swiftly approve this package of bills and send on to the President’s desk for his signature.”
