House lawmakers have introduced a bill to help processors upgrade to federal inspection.
Under the Ramp Up Act, state inspected meat and poultry processors would be eligible for $100,000 grants. Funds would help upgrade plants to meet USDA compliance standards and gaining federal inspection status would allow plants to ship products across state lines.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association supports the bill saying it ensures “cattle ranchers and farmers have robust access to new markets regardless of where their livestock is processed.”