The gist

Creates a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) subsidy for ranchers who sell beef directly to consumers, restaurants, or farmers' markets when their sales tank by 25% or more.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: small ranchers, local butchers, farmers' market shoppers, farm-to-table restaurants.
• Loses: large meatpackers like Tyson and JBS, since the program rewards bypassing them.

What it does

• Triggers payments only in years when direct-to-market beef sales drop 25%+ versus a 5-year average.
• Pays 20% of the price gap between the subsidy year and recent averages, per cow.
• Caps payouts at $500 per cow and $100,000 per rancher yearly.
• Requires ranchers to use a local processor (in-state or within 200 miles) and sell 50%+ directly.

Why should I care?

Supporters say small ranchers get crushed by four giant meatpackers controlling 85% of beef, and local food strengthens rural towns. Critics argue this is another farm subsidy that picks winners and raises taxpayer costs without fixing market concentration. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.