USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Thursday more than $35 million in grants to 15 independent meat processors in 12 states to increase processing capacity, the final installment in the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) launched in 2022. Over $325 million total investment in 74 independent meat and poultry processing projects have been awarded.

Joining Sec. Vilsack in making the announcement were Carl Cushing, Vermont Livestock Slaughter & Processing; Zach Fine, Holly Poultry; and Walter Schweitzer, Montana Premium Processing Cooperative and President of Montana Farmers Union.

Reporters’ questions to Secretary Vilsack included asking for his thoughts on getting a farm bill done yet this year as farmers are struggling with lower income. “What producers want and need, I think is certainty and what they need and want is for the House and the Senate to conclude the work on getting a farm bill done.. I think it is obviously a positive sign that folks are talking about getting a farm bill done before the end of the year,” said Vilsack.