Commissioner Rick Pate Announces USDA Increases Reimbursement Rates For State Meat And Poultry Inspection Programs

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate announces that USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins is exercising USDA’s authority to use funds received as part of the FY 2025 Brooke Rollins to provide an additional $14.54 million to increase reimbursement rates for state’s with meat and poultry inspection programs up to the former 50 percent, as authorized in the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act.

For the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI), the additional funding provides continued financial support for the state’s inspection program, reducing pressure on the budget to cover operational costs. Higher reimbursement rates will allow ADAI to support the local slaughter and meat processing facilities to provide their 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,” said Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate. “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 has around 80 slaughter and meat processing facilities across the state that process over 14,000 cattle annually. Approximately 77 million pounds of products were processed under inspection in Alabama last year. These facilities play a vital role in the state’s agricultural economy and food supply chain. These additional funds support cattle producers by ensuring that 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,” said Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier. “This investment supports our farmers, protects consumers and keeps Alabama-raised products on our tables.”

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