COUNCIL BLUFFS, I.A. (NAFB) – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack appeared in Iowa Friday announcing $500 million to expand meat and poultry processing capacity. The announcement supports the executive order signed Friday by President Joe Biden.

Vilsack says the funds aim to create a more competitive market for farmers.

Originally planned for Omaha, Nebraska, Vilsack appeared just across the Missouri River in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Vilsack made his comments during a press event.

Specifically, USDA announced its intent to invest $500 million in American Rescue Plan funds to expand meat and poultry processing capacity.

USDA also announced more than $150 million for existing small and very small processing facilities to help them weather COVID, compete in the marketplace and get the support they need to reach more customers.

USDA is also holding meatpackers accountable by revitalizing the Packers and Stockyards Act, issuing new rules on “Product of USA” labels, and developing plans to expand farmers’ access to new markets.