Source: National Hog Farmer
At a U.S. House Appropriations Committee hearing on the USDA budget, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins criticized California’s Proposition 12, calling it “unsustainable” due to its significant impact beyond state borders. Prop 12 requires stricter animal housing standards for pork sold in California, affecting producers nationwide. Rollins emphasized the need for a federal approach to prevent a patchwork of state laws that could threaten small farms.
She acknowledged bipartisan concern over the issue and said the USDA has already begun deregulating certain federal policies to support livestock producers. Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) raised concerns about small farmers being unable to afford compliance, forcing many out of the California market—which represents 15% of U.S. pork consumption. The National Pork Producers Council has worked with lawmakers like Hinson to find legislative solutions, warning that the economic strain of Prop 12 could worsen if more states adopt similar regulations, disproportionately hurting small and mid-sized producers.