Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate announced a $14.54 million increase in federal funding for state meat and poultry inspection programs, thanks to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins' decision to allocate additional resources from the FY 2025 Non-Recurring Expense Fund.

The move restores reimbursement rates to 50%, as allowed under the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act.

The additional funding will ease financial pressures on the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) by supporting the operation of its meat and poultry inspection programs. This helps local slaughterhouses and meat processors maintain their operations and bring products to market.

"I commend Secretary Rollins for providing much-needed funds to support state meat and poultry inspection programs. This is a significant win for Alabama consumers and producers," Pate said in a news release. "The additional $14.54 million is critical to strengthening our food supply chain and supporting the hardworking producers and processors who keep it thriving."

Alabama is home to about 80 slaughter and meat processing facilities that annually process more than 14,000 cattle. Last year, these facilities inspected roughly 77 million pounds of meat products. They are essential to the state's agricultural economy and food supply, ensuring Alabama-raised beef remains accessible to consumers.

"This funding provides immediate financial relief for Alabama's meat and poultry inspection programs. These facilities play a critical role in protecting public health and supporting our agricultural economy," Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier said. "This investment supports our farmers, protects consumers and keeps Alabama-raised products on our tables."

For more information on the Alabama Meat and Poultry Inspection Program, visit www.agi.alabama.gov/animalindustries/meat-inspection or call (334) 240-7120.