NPPC President Warns Senate about Prop 12’s Economic Impact
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) President, Lori Stevermer, testified before the U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, raising concerns about California’s Proposition 12 and its harmful effects on pork producers and agriculture.
Stevermer emphasized that Prop 12 has led to increased production costs, regulatory burdens, and market disruptions for pork producers across the country. She stated that the law, which dictates specific housing standards for pigs, was developed without input from industry experts, making compliance costly and complex.
“We must address the challenges caused by Prop 12,” Stevermer said. “It has driven up pork prices, placed financial strain on farmers, and created uncertainty in the industry.” She highlighted bipartisan opposition to the regulation, citing support from both the current and former U.S. presidents.
Under Prop 12, uncooked pork products must meet California’s strict housing standards, regardless of where they are produced. The regulation is inconsistent—cooked pork products, such as microwave bacon, are exempt. This disparity places additional burdens on farmers while limiting consumer choices.
Prop 12 also requires external farm audits, adding significant costs to production and putting small and family-run pork operations at risk. Stevermer warned that without intervention, these regulatory challenges could force many producers out of business.
In addition to Prop 12, Stevermer discussed the need for stronger protections against foreign animal diseases, expanded trade opportunities, and improved access to year-round H-2A visas to support the labor force. She highlighted the strength of the pork industry, which marketed over 149 million hogs worth $27 billion in 2023 while supporting more than 573,000 jobs nationwide.
Stevermer called on lawmakers to take action to prevent further economic damage to American agriculture and ensure a stable, competitive market for pork producers.
Click Here to read Stevermer’s full testimony.