H.R. 7818 — American Meat Freedom Act

This section states congressional findings that (1) State meat inspection programs are authorized under section 301 of the Federal Meat Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. 661) if the Secretary of Agriculture determines they impose requirements at least equal to federal inspection; (2) ranchers and small-scale meat producers under compliant State programs are limited in accessing interstate markets; and (3) allowing interstate shipment of meat and meat food products inspected under qualifying State programs would expand market access for small and mid-sized ranchers, increase competition in meat processing, strengthen domestic food supply resilience, and maintain food safety standards equivalent to federal inspection.

This section authorizes interstate shipment, transportation, sale, or offering for sale of meat and meat food products inspected and passed under a qualifying State meat inspection program (i.e., one with mandatory ante mortem and post mortem inspection, reinspection, and sanitation requirements at least equal to those under the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA), subchapter I). Such interstate commerce is permitted if (1) the Secretary of Agriculture determines, on or after 36 months before the shipment or sale, that the State program meets FMIA requirements; (2) the producing establishment complied with applicable State requirements; (3) the product bears labeling indicating State inspection for interstate shipment, transportation, and sale; and (4) the State agrees to periodic federal audits. (Thus, this expands State-inspected meat from intrastate-only distribution.) This section further directs the Secretary to promulgate implementing regulations within 90 days of enactment.