An amended version of a Nebraska bill that could facilitate horse processing plant development in that state was passed by state lawmakers on May 5, according to a spokesman for bill sponsor Sen. Tyson Larson.

In its original version introduced in January, LB 305 would have established a state inspection program for plants that process meat and poultry for human consumption. The program would operate under USDA State Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) Program requirements.

MPI programs operate in several states under cooperative agreement with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. Under the agreement, participating states must enforce food safety requirements that meet or exceed those contained in the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act. Food products produced under the state inspections may not be distributed across state lines.

Larson said the bill would support existing plants that process grass-fed cattle, bison, elk, and ostrich, and would invite horse processing plant developers to the state