Bill > HR3076

This bill aims to support small and very small meat and poultry processing establishments through several key provisions. First, it requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a free, searchable database of peer-reviewed validation studies and publish online model Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans for smaller establishments within 18 months, along with guidance documents to help these establishments receive HACCP plan approval. The bill also increases the maximum federal share of state meat and poultry inspection expenses from 50% to 65%, and expands the Cooperative Interstate Shipment program by raising the employee threshold from 25 to 50 employees and increasing federal cost-sharing from 60% to 80%. Additionally, the bill creates a new Processing Resilience Grant Program that will provide competitive grants up to $500,000 to eligible meat and poultry processing entities to increase their resilience, support employee health and safety, and expand processing capacity. The legislation also establishes training programs through land-grant colleges, community colleges, and processing establishments to develop career training and structured apprenticeship programs in meat and poultry processing, with $10 million annually authorized for each type of training program. These provisions are designed to strengthen local meat and poultry processing infrastructure, support small businesses, and address workforce development in the agricultural sector.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3076/all-info