U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer unveiled new legislation Monday that he says is designed to lower grocery prices, increase competition in the meat industry, and provide support for farmers across Upstate New York.
Schumer announced the proposed Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act during a visit to a supermarket in Walworth, citing rising food costs in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region.
According to an analysis by the Urban Institute referenced by Schumer’s office, grocery costs have increased by more than 50 percent over the past decade in parts of Western and Central New York. The analysis found that average monthly grocery expenses in New York’s 24th Congressional District rose from approximately $710 to $1,080, while costs in the 25th Congressional District increased from about $770 to $1,160.
The legislation focuses on competition within the meatpacking industry. Schumer’s office said four companies currently control about 85 percent of the nation’s beef market, 67 percent of the pork market, and 60 percent of the chicken market.
Under the proposal, the largest meatpacking companies would be required to choose between operating in the beef, pork, or chicken sectors rather than maintaining dominant positions across multiple markets.
The bill would also provide financial and technical assistance to farmers’ cooperatives and smaller businesses seeking to acquire, operate, or expand meatpacking facilities. Supporters say the goal is to strengthen local and regional supply chains and create more competition in the marketplace.
In addition, the legislation would direct the Federal Trade Commission to pursue enforcement actions against foreign-controlled companies that lawmakers believe distort U.S. agricultural markets and limit opportunities for American producers.
The Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act has been introduced in the Senate and will require congressional approval before becoming law.
