USDA would strengthen livestock-market enforcement and meat access

The Agriculture Secretary must increase enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act and review related rules and policies. The direction covers meatpackers and other businesses covered by that law, with attention to unfair, deceptive, discriminatory, price-manipulating, or commerce-restraining practices. Any enforcement or policy changes must follow the Packers and Stockyards Act and other applicable laws. The order does not itself create new legal rights or benefits. Within 60 days of September 4, 2026, the Secretary must report on current cases, resource needs, and a plan for the following year; the order sets no end date for the enforcement direction.

USDA must pursue steps to expand interstate market opportunities for eligible meat products. The steps include state and federal inspection programs, small and very small processors, and federally inspected facilities that allow interstate shipment. USDA must follow applicable law and preserve essential food-safety requirements. The order directs outreach, training, information, and proposed process changes; it does not itself authorize every state-inspected or custom-exempt product for interstate sale. Within 60 days, the Secretary must report on program participation, legal or regulatory barriers, and federal rules or trade issues affecting interstate shipment. The order gives the Secretary 60 days from September 4, 2026, to submit the required reports; it sets no deadline for completing the other actions.

USDA must take appropriate steps to establish a guaranteed loan program for small and regional beef processors. The proposed program would cover small and regional beef processors and could support continued operations, expansion, and processing of a wider range of animal proteins. USDA must act consistently with applicable law and available appropriations. The order directs steps toward establishing the program; it does not guarantee that loans will be offered or approved.