Waterloo Times

Today, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) introduced the Save Our Bacon Act in Washington, D.C. The legislation aims to protect interstate commerce for Iowa family farmers and reduce grocery prices for consumers. This move comes in response to mandates from California and Massachusetts that affect production practices for farmers in other states.

Hinson stated, “California’s Proposition 12 and Massachusetts’ Question 3 pose a major threat to family farms and food security—both in Iowa and across the country." She emphasized that the legislation will allow livestock producers to sell their products across state lines without interference from these mandates.

Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa supported the act, saying it would enable Iowa farmers to continue feeding the nation without interference from California's requirements. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird also expressed support, highlighting the importance of allowing states like Iowa to regulate their own farming practices.

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig applauded Hinson's efforts, noting that such legislation is crucial for maintaining an affordable food supply. He stressed that California's mandates increase production costs and consumer prices.

Duane Stateler, President of the National Pork Producers Council, appreciated Hinson's engagement with family farmers. Aaron Juergens of the Iowa Pork Producers Association urged Congress to address Prop 12's impact on both consumers and producers.

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation thanked Hinson for her support of fair interstate commerce through this act. They warned against laws restricting sales from other states, which could lead to higher costs for consumers.

Background information highlights that California passed Proposition 12 in 2018, affecting meat sales based on animal housing compliance. In May 2023, the US Supreme Court upheld this proposition but noted Congress has authority over interstate commerce interference.

Research indicates mandates like Prop 12 significantly raise costs for producers and consumers alike. Following its implementation, pork loin prices in California rose by 41%.

In December 2023, Rep. Hinson testified about these impacts before the House Agriculture Committee. Recently at a House Appropriations Committee hearing, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins described such mandates as "unsustainable."

On July 9th, the Trump Administration’s Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against California over laws including Prop 12 due to rising grocery prices.

The bill was introduced alongside Representatives Feenstra, Nunn, Miller-Meeks among others.