Press Releases

U.S. Representative Mark Alford (R-MO) today introduced his first bill since taking office, the Amplifying Processing of Livestock in the United States (A-PLUS) Act. Given growing industry concerns, the A-PLUS Act would fix regulatory roadblocks to increase meat processing capacity by allowing livestock auction market owners to invest in small and regional packing facilities.  

“The A-PLUS Act corrects an over 100-year-old policy that does not accurately reflect the modern livestock industry, which is why this legislation is critical for the agriculture community. For too long, our farmers and ranchers have had to abide by these restrictive rules while trying to compete in the marketplace, and I’m proud to lead this bill as my first piece of legislation,” said Rep. Mark Alford.

Since the enactment of the Packers and Stockyards Act in the 1900s, the livestock industry has grown and modernized. These outdated regulations have restricted the livestock industry’s growth and presence in the marketplace, despite an increase in demand. The A-PLUS Act now corrects this issue by opening competition and lifting unnecessary restrictions. 

As a member of the House Agriculture committee, Representative Mark Alford is focused on the priorities of the farmers and ranchers in Missouri’s 4th District. This legislation has been endorsed by The Livestock Marketing Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association,  American Farm Bureau Federation, National Pork Producers Council, The American Sheep Industry, Missouri Pork Producers Association, and Missouri Cattlemen's Association. Reps. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) and Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) joined in leading this legislation.  

“Missouri’s cattle industry commends Congressman Alford for leading the charge on common-sense market policy removing outdated and unnecessary government regulations. Expanding packer competition for livestock and processing capacity at the local level will afford all segments of this industry the opportunity to be profitable,” said David Dick, Missouri Cattlemen's Association President.  

“Missouri pork producers greatly appreciate Congressman Alford for introducing the A-PLUS Act to reduce a regulatory barrier in the livestock industry and even the playing field. This bill would secure another tool in the toolbox to enhance market opportunities and boost processing capacity at the local level,” said Don Laut, Chairman of the Missouri Pork Association.