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HJR 94

Proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to produce meat and meat food products naturally derived from livestock.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Valoree Swanson

Texas proposes constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to produce livestock-derived meat products, protecting agricultural practices from potential future restrictions.

Referred to Agriculture & Livestock
#agriculture(i0020) #animals(i0035) #food(s0761) #health--general(i0385) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
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Bill Summary · HJR 94

Legislative bill overview

HJR 94 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Texas Constitution that would explicitly protect the right to produce meat and meat food products derived from livestock. The amendment would need to pass both chambers of the legislature and then be approved by Texas voters in a statewide referendum to become part of the state constitution.

Why is this important

This amendment would constitutionally entrench meat production rights, making it significantly harder for future legislatures or regulatory bodies to restrict livestock farming practices. It reflects ongoing tensions between agricultural interests and animal welfare advocates, as well as concerns about federal regulatory overreach into state agricultural policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The phrase "naturally derived" is undefined—it's unclear whether this protects conventional factory farming, grass-fed operations, or specifically excludes lab-grown meat alternatives
  • Animal welfare vs. production rights: The amendment prioritizes production rights without addressing or limiting animal welfare regulations, raising questions about what restrictions would remain constitutional
  • Federal preemption concerns: While framed as protecting state rights, it could complicate federal food safety, environmental, and interstate commerce regulations that currently apply to livestock operations
  • Lab-grown and plant-based meat implications: The amendment may be a defensive measure against potential restrictions on traditional meat in favor of alternative proteins, but this intent isn't explicit

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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