Texas Senate Bill SB867

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to an animal share exemption for certain meat and meat food products.

Impact

The introduction of SB867 has significant implications for state food safety laws and livestock management regulations. By establishing an exemption from inspection protocols for meat produced under an animal share arrangement, the Bill alters the dynamics of meat distribution, allowing for a more consumer-driven sourcing of meat products. Proponents argue that this could enhance consumer access to high-quality, locally sourced meats, thereby benefiting both consumers and local farmers. However, concerns arise regarding the potential risks associated with the lack of stringent regulatory oversight, which may impact food safety standards in the market.

Summary

Senate Bill 867 aims to create an 'animal share exemption' for certain meat and meat food products in Texas. This new legislation defines an 'animal share' as an ownership interest in livestock achieved through a contract between a consumer and a farmer or rancher. The bill stipulates that the exemption allows consumers to obtain a share of meat produced from livestock they have a stake in, thus circumventing some existing safety inspection requirements under state law. The intention behind the bill is to streamline access to locally sourced meat products for consumers who directly invest in livestock, promoting the farm-to-table movement and local agricultural practices.

Contention

A point of contention regarding SB867 is its potential to undermine existing safety regulations that ensure the quality and safe preparation of meat products. Critics of the bill express that allowing meat from non-inspected sources may pose health risks to consumers. The bill's provisions include specific requirements, such as consumer notifications about the absence of inspection and the obligation for farmers to disclose meat preparation standards, which proponents believe safeguard consumer interests. Nevertheless, the underlying concern is whether these measures are sufficient to prevent unsafe practices in livestock management and meat production.