News

Proposition 12 decision could come soon

The pork industry is awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision on Proposition 12, a measure requiring livestock to be raised under strict production practices.

Sweet Springs, Missouri hog farmer and the newly elected president of the Missouri Pork Association Adam Dohrman tells Brownfield if the measure goes into effect, the requirements would limit market access for pork producers.

“If they’re selling product in California, if you’re not meeting the standards California has set, then you’re not going to be able to sell to that packer,” he says. “That’s a really bad deal for pork producers across the United States and it’s only going to drive prices up for California and everyone.”

Missouri Pork Association Executive Vice President Don Nikodim tells Brownfield it’s a wait-and-see scenario.

“Hopefully, they’ll do the right thing and not put that in position for producers across the United States.”

Policy analyst Jim Wiesemeyer says a Supreme Court decision could be coming soon.

“Certain lawyer sources in the case are starting to signal a decision could come relatively soon.”

Brownfield interviewed Nikodim, Dohrman and Wiesemeyer at the Missouri Pork Expo.