A group of senators, led by Iowa Senators Chuck Grassley (R) and Joni Ernst (R), have reintroduced the Exposing Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act.
In partnership with Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS), and with Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) spearheading the effort in the House of Representatives, the bill seeks to maintain interstate agricultural trade and protect consumers’ access to affordable food, such as bacon.
The legislation targets policies such as California’s Proposition 12, which places heavy regulations on pork products sold within the state, regardless of their origin.
Grassley argues, “California’s Proposition 12 is going to hurt the economy of Iowa, which is number one in pork production.”
He also adds, “Because we farm differently than the eggheads of California think we ought to run our animal agriculture, we can’t sell our product there.”
The EATS Act is aimed at preventing states from interfering with nationwide agricultural production while preserving their rights to regulate farming and ranching within their own borders.
Grassley further adds, “We have to solve this problem by passing legislation. Our bill makes sure Iowa pork can be sold everywhere in the nation, including in California, and consumers can afford bacon for breakfast.”
Ernst echoed Grassley’s sentiments, arguing, “California should look a little bit more like Iowa, not the other way around.”
She emphasized the potential economic burden of such regulations, stating that “Proposition 12 puts the regulatory burdens on the backs of farmers and racks up the price for consumers at the grocery store, and the EATS Act will prevent such actions from crushing our Iowa producers.”
The reintroduction of the EATS Act has been applauded by industry representatives. Trish Cook, President of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, said, “States should not be able to regulate industries outside of their borders. This bill is a good first step in protecting producers’ livelihoods so they can raise safe and healthy pigs for generations to come.”
Similarly, Bryan Humphries, CEO of the National Pork Producers Council, expressed his gratitude to the senators for working towards a solution to the challenges brought on by California’s Proposition 12.
He stated, “Proposition 12 will have a significant impact on pork producers and consumers across the country.”
This action comes after the Supreme Court ruled last month on the National Pork Producers Council v. Ross case, a separate challenge against Proposition 12.
The court acknowledged Congress’ power under the Commerce Clause to bar “the enforcement of ‘certain state [economic regulations].’”
The bill also garnered support from Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Ted Budd (R-NC), and Bill Hagerty (R-TN) who have all agreed to co-sponsor the proposed legislation.
