The Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance (FARFA) is a national organization dedicated to supporting independent family farmers and ensuring a healthy, productive food supply for American consumers. By promoting common sense policies for local, diversified agricultural systems, FARFA advocates for the thousands of small-scale farmers and ranchers who use sustainable and regenerative methods. This commitment drives FARFA's efforts on Capitol Hill, focusing on critical issues which you can learn more about below.

Key Policy Priorities and News

1. PRIME Act Progress
   • Reintroduced by Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME), the PRIME Act aims to allow states to set their own standards for the sale of custom-slaughtered meat, bypassing federal inspection requirements.
   • The House bill includes a pilot program for the PRIME Act, allowing each state to approve five custom slaughterhouses initially, with the possibility of approving more after two years if no foodborne illnesses occur.
2. LOCAL Foods Act of 2024
   • A potential bill to clarify and expand the personal-slaughter exemption for local producers.
   • FARFA is actively engaging with Congress and local constituents to advocate for this important legislation, though it is not yet included in the 2024 Farm Bill drafts.
3. EATS Act Concerns
   • Included in the House committee version of the Farm Bill, this provision prevents local and state governments from setting standards for livestock production, a move opposed by FARFA due to its potential to undermine local control for the benefit of the large corporate operations..
4. Electronic Animal ID Mandate
   • The USDA plans to mandate electronic ID for cattle crossing state lines, set to take effect on November 9th.
   • FARFA is opposing this regulation through stand-alone bills (S. 4282) and a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution.
   • Advocacy efforts will also focus on addressing this issue in the Farm Bill.

Call to Action

FARFA urges continued advocacy and engagement to influence the final Farm Bill. Key focus areas include:

• Supporting the PRIME Act and LOCAL Foods Act.
• Opposing the EATS Act and the animal electronic ID mandate.
• Advocating for robust, climate-focused conservation funding.

Stay informed and participate in FARFA’s initiatives to protect and empower small farmers and ranchers. Together, we can shape a sustainable and equitable agricultural future.

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