Bill > S1904

This bill amends the Animal Health Protection Act to establish new rules for large egg producers seeking government compensation after experiencing losses from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Specifically, the bill defines a "covered entity" as a business with over $100 million in annual revenue and more than 1,500 employees, including employees, contractors, and affiliates. To receive government indemnification or compensation, these large egg producers must certify that they will not pay dividends or repurchase stock during the two years following compensation, except for pre-existing contractual obligations. For private equity-owned or publicly traded companies, additional certifications are required, including demonstrating that current economic conditions necessitate government support and that they cannot access alternative liquidity sources without significant harm to their operations. The bill also includes strict penalties for false certifications, including mandatory full repayment of compensation with interest and potential criminal charges including up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $1 million. The goal appears to be preventing large egg producers from using government compensation for shareholder benefits while ensuring they can maintain operations during HPAI outbreaks.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1904/all-info