Bill > SB516

This bill appropriates funding to the State Department of Agriculture to support a state meat inspection program for the 2025-2027 biennium, with a specific focus on enhancing meat processing capabilities across Oregon. The bill allocates an unspecified amount from the General Fund to hire up to two full-time equivalent staff members to implement state inspection activities under ORS 619.042. The new staff members are directed to distribute their work equitably statewide, with priority given to three specific types of facilities: slaughter-specific facilities, facilities in rural and underserved communities, and facilities that have received funding through the Oregon Meat Processing Infrastructure and Capacity Building Grant Program. The bill includes an emergency clause, which means it will take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting the state's urgent need to support and expand small-scale meat processing infrastructure. This legislation aims to strengthen local meat processing capabilities, particularly in areas that have been historically underserved or have limited processing infrastructure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB516