By Scout Nelson
A bill aimed at banning lab-grown meat—also known as cell-cultured meat—is moving forward in the South Dakota Legislature after a contentious committee hearing.
The bill is modeled after a Florida law designed to protect the traditional beef industry. Supporters argue that it safeguards consumer health and the state’s agricultural economy, while opponents claim it could face legal challenges and restrict consumer choice.
During a House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee hearing, some legislators raised concerns about potential conflicts with the Interstate Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Others worried that the bill might limit free-market principles by restricting what consumers can purchase.
A key opponent of the bill called it dangerous in terms of restricting trade and limiting consumer choice. “I don’t think it is the responsibility of this legislative body to decide what people can and cannot spend money on or choose to consume,” one legislator stated.
Supporters of the bill disagree, asserting that lab-grown meat lacks long-term safety studies and could pose health risks. “Originally, I thought I wanted to ban cell-cultured meat to protect the ag industry, but I realized this would conflict with free-market principles. Now, my desire is to ban it to protect consumers,” the bill’s sponsor explained.
After a heated debate, HB 1109 passed the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee in an 8-5 vote. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for further discussion.
Meanwhile, a separate bill requiring proper labeling of lab-grown meat has already passed the Legislature and awaits the governor’s signature. The ongoing debate highlights South Dakota’s commitment to agricultural protection and consumer safety concerns in the growing discussion over lab-grown meat products.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-luoman
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy