(NAFB.com) – More than 100 pork producers from across the country traveled to Capitol Hill to warn lawmakers about the economic strain caused by California Proposition 12. Backed by new retail and USDA data, producers argued the law is driving up costs and disrupting the industry. Research from North Dakota State University’s Agricultural Risk Policy Center found pork prices tied to Proposition 12 remain significantly higher, with some cuts in pork loins rising by 32 percent, and ribs were up 22 percent. The analysis also estimates that California consumers have paid $350 million more for pork while consumption has declined. The National Pork Producers Council is backing federal legislation to address the issue, including the Farm Bill 2.0. “We need relief from a patchwork of state animal housing laws,” said NPPC President Rob Brenneman. “The mission is clear: We need Congress to exercise its authority and fix Proposition 12.”
