Nebraska State Senator Tom Brandt has introduced Lb 324, the Independent Processor Assistance Program legislation. Center for Rural Affairs is supporting the measure. Policy Director Johnathan Hladik says the bill has two components including one that allows consumers to purchase individual packages of meat directly from the producer or processor while the second expands processing facilities.

He says over a dozen states are already using CARES Act funding to help with smaller meat processor expansion and Senator Brandt’s bill calls for a grant program to utilize those funds.

Hladik says the next stop for Brandt’s legislation will be before the Agriculture Committee.

Senator Brandt says his bill will provide much needed support for producers, processors and consumers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska and Nebraska Pork Producers Association are in favor of the legislation.