Dusty Johnson: “During this COVID-19 pandemic, ag producers and consumers across the country have suffered as we have seen the cracks in…”

“During this COVID-19 pandemic, ag producers and consumers across the country have suffered as we have seen the cracks in our food supply system. Now, small State-inspected processors, meat processors, did what they could to step up and close the gap, fill the gap, but their efforts were hindered by the fact that Federal laws don't allow for State- inspected facilities to ship meat across State lines. I would observe that this pandemic is only accelerating the American desire to know where their food comes from and their desire to purchase directly from producers. So that is why, this week, along with Speaker Pro Tem Henry Cuellar, I introduced the DIRECT Act. This bill allows these State-inspected meat facilities to sell their meat across State lines through e-commerce. That is really going to unlock an incredible amount of potential as small producers and processors will have the option to put that product into the hands of consumers. I think it is important to remember that many States like South Dakota have State-inspection standards that are at least equal to what the Federal Government already requires, so this isn't a food safety issue. This bill would cut through the red tape. It would allow more flexibility. It would allow more opportunity for producers, for processors, and for consumers.…”