H.R.690 - To prohibit the use of Federal funds to implement Salmonella framework for raw poultry products. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 690 aims to prohibit the use of federal funds to implement the Salmonella Framework for Raw Poultry Products, which was proposed by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the Department of Agriculture. The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on August 7, 2024. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 23, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Agriculture.
The bill seeks to prevent the finalization, implementation, administration, or enforcement of the proposed Salmonella framework. This action reflects concerns regarding the framework's potential impact or effectiveness.
The bill is sponsored by Mr. Mann and Mr. Womack.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 690 would halt the implementation of the FSIS's proposed Salmonella Framework for Raw Poultry Products. This would mean that the existing regulations and practices regarding Salmonella in raw poultry would remain in place.
The USDA would be unable to use federal funds to enact the new framework. The impact would largely affect the poultry industry and consumers, potentially influencing food safety measures and related public health outcomes.
Potential Benefits
- Could prevent potential economic burdens on poultry producers if the new framework is deemed too costly or ineffective.
- May avoid unintended consequences that the proposed framework might have on the availability or price of poultry products.
- Could allow for further evaluation and refinement of the Salmonella framework based on additional data or stakeholder input.
- Might preserve existing practices if they are considered adequate for managing Salmonella risks.
- Could address concerns raised by specific stakeholders regarding the scientific basis or practical feasibility of the proposed framework.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could delay or prevent improvements in food safety related to Salmonella contamination in raw poultry.
- May leave consumers at a higher risk of contracting Salmonella infections from poultry products.
- Could hinder the adoption of more effective or innovative approaches to reducing Salmonella in the poultry supply chain.
- Might disregard scientific advancements or best practices in food safety management.
- Could create uncertainty or inconsistency in food safety regulations if the proposed framework is perceived as necessary by some stakeholders.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution primarily concerns the legislative power granted to Congress under Article I, Section 1. Congress has the authority to allocate federal funds and determine how those funds are spent. This bill represents an exercise of that power by restricting the use of funds for a specific purpose.
There are no apparent conflicts with specific constitutional rights or amendments. The bill does not appear to infringe on individual liberties, religious freedom, or other protected rights.
However, the constitutionality of the underlying agency action (the proposed Salmonella framework) is not directly addressed by this bill. The bill simply restricts funding for that action.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).