WASHINGTON, D.C. (LOOTPRESS) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a $14.5 million funding boost to support state meat and poultry inspection programs, aiming to secure food safety, strengthen the supply chain, and protect small and mid-sized processors across the country.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins made the announcement Tuesday, stating the funding is necessary to help states continue inspecting meat and poultry products at the local level—a vital function that ensures the food on American tables remains safe and accessible.
“President Trump is committed to a safe, affordable food supply,” Rollins said. “By increasing funding to state inspection programs, we’re ensuring small processors can stay operational and local products can reach the market.”
The funding addresses a shortfall that officials say has strained state inspection services in recent years. Without this support, many states risked being unable to meet inspection demands, potentially disrupting the meat supply chain.
The funding will be distributed as reimbursements through USDA’s cooperative agreements with states, which cover the cost of inspections performed at the state level. Many states operate these programs in partnership with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), which sets national standards for food safety.
Nationwide Praise from State Agriculture Leaders
Agriculture officials from across the country applauded the move:
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NASDA CEO Ted McKinney called the funding “critical” for small farms and processors, saying it keeps local meat production viable and safe.
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Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said the investment “supports our livestock industry, grows rural economies, and ensures more locally-raised meat reaches consumers.”
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Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper and Ohio Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge emphasized the importance of restoring funding cut in recent years.
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Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller praised the USDA’s full FY26 reimbursements as “real support for American agriculture.”
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Officials from West Virginia, Arkansas, South Dakota, Missouri, and other states echoed similar support, highlighting the impact on rural businesses and food safety.
Why It Matters
State meat and poultry inspection programs allow local processors—often small or family-run businesses—to operate under federal-equivalent safety standards. These programs are especially critical in rural areas and help keep processing capacity close to producers.
With the additional funding, states can maintain and expand inspection services, which may also help shorten supply chains, reduce processing delays, and give consumers more locally sourced meat options.
Rollins urged policymakers to work together to ensure long-term sustainability of these programs beyond the current funding cycle.
“This isn’t just about inspections,” Rollins said. “It’s about protecting our food supply, supporting farmers and ranchers, and delivering safe, American-grown food to families across the country.”
The new funding will be made available immediately, with full implementation set for the 2026 fiscal year.
