American Protein Processing Modernization Act

The American Protein Processing Modernization Act mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and publish clear food safety criteria within 90 days for meat and poultry establishments seeking to operate at alternate, higher inspection rates. The Secretary must promptly begin reviewing and responding to these requests, aiming to provide a standardized and transparent process for increasing processing speeds while maintaining safety standards. The bill sets a strict 90-day deadline for the Secretary to respond to each request, requiring approval if criteria are met, or a detailed written denial otherwise. If the Secretary fails to respond within this period, the request is automatically deemed approved, ensuring timely processing. Establishments already operating at alternate inspection rates may continue, provided they maintain effective process control or until their new request is processed. Approved alternate inspection rates can continue indefinitely, contingent on consistently meeting the established food safety criteria. The legislation includes provisions for noncompliance, requiring a written notice if an establishment fails to meet food safety criteria. If failures are not remedied within 180 days, the Secretary may revoke the alternate inspection authority. Any revocation notice must include a timeline for adjusting inspection rates, with careful consideration for potential impacts on live animal production, animal welfare, and contractual obligations.