Congress must address the concerning issue of food inflation, particularly in light of a newly enacted California law that is impacting citizens both in the state and potentially nationwide. California law Proposition 12, which came into effect in January, prohibits farmers from selling pork and eggs in California if they use common animal husbandry practices. This law, financed by animal rights activists, has led to a significant increase in pork prices in California, with prices soaring by 20% on average and pork loins seeing a staggering 41% increase.

Consumers in California are feeling the effects of Proposition 12, with wholesale prices jumping by 30% and pork consumption declining by 10%. The impact of this law is not limited to California alone; it has created a ripple effect across the country, driving up costs for pork farmers nationwide.

Pork producers across the United States are now facing compliance costs of around $3.5 million to meet California’s housing standards, which ultimately translates to higher costs for consumers across the nation. The interference of California’s regulations in farming practices outside the state is a growing concern that needs to be addressed at the federal level.

Congress must take action in this year’s Farm Bill to protect both farmers and consumers from the repercussions of laws like Proposition 12. The rising food prices and market disruptions caused by such legislation highlight the need for a unified approach to safeguarding the agricultural industry and ensuring affordable access to essential food products for all Americans.