ALBUQUERQUE, NM. — A new proposed state law in New Mexico, the Meat Inspection Act, moved forward on Feb. 13 to create a state meat inspection program.

The bipartisan bill, SB 37, authorizes the New Mexico Livestock Board to conduct meat inspections to ensure the safety and quality of meat for human consumption inside New Mexico.

There are a few US Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspectors located in New Mexico. Still, state associations, including the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association, said the proposed legislation would help ranchers sell more products inside the state instead of slaughtering livestock out of state.

The bill has now passed through the House and Senate of New Mexico and will go to the desk of Governor Michelle Grisham.

“After eight long years, the New Mexico in-state meat inspection bill is headed to the governor’s desk for signature,” said State Representative Gail Armstrong on her Facebook page. “This means New Mexicans can consume more of the beef that’s grown and harvested in state. Local grown meat for our schools, childcare centers, senior meal sites and local restaurants.”

The law would also start an office of meat and poultry inspection for New Mexico, which would be created by the New Mexico Livestock Board. The board would then appoint an inspection director to oversee the new state requirements for meat processing and food safety.

The effective date of the provisions of this act is July 1, 2024.