MOFB Statement: SCOTUS Prop 12 Decision

(MO Farm Bureau statement) This week, in a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld California Proposition 12, imposing strict production standards for any pork sold in California, regardless of where it is produced. This regulation will greatly impact Missouri’s important 3.3 million head-hog industry. California Proposition 12 will almost certainly drive some farmers out of business and lead to further industry consolidation. This onerous regulation will do nothing to improve animal welfare, as advocates claim, but it will undoubtedly drive up the cost of pork products at grocery stores for consumers in Missouri and all across the country.

Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins said the following about the ruling:

“This Supreme Court decision is disappointing for Missouri’s farm and ranch families. MOFB has fought against this flawed regulation since day one. We appreciate the legal challenge brought forth by the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Pork Producers Council, and we were glad to support their efforts by joining an amicus brief opposing California Proposition 12. MOFB opposes efforts by any state to unfairly restrict market access for Missouri’s farmers and ranchers we will continue to push back against regulations that infringe upon our producers’ livelihoods.”