A controversial proposal to ban lab-grown meat in Nebraska has fractured the state’s agricultural community, with ranchers and farm groups leading opposition to what they call government overreach. Republican Governor Jim Pillen’s push to prohibit cultivated meat sales – framed as protection for Nebraska’s $12.5 billion beef industry – faces surprising resistance from those it aims to protect.
Fourth-generation rancher Dan Morgan epitomizes the dissent.
Stifling competition contradicts everything we stand for as Republicans,he argues, while supplying premium Waygu beef globally. Morgan’s stance reflects broader concerns that bans could hinder market evolution as global demand for protein surges.
The legislative battle comes as only two U.S. companies currently sell cultivated chicken, with mass production years away. Nebraska’s bill now pivots to food safety arguments, despite USDA/FDA oversight of existing products. States taking divergent approaches include:
- Florida/Alabama – Full sales bans enacted
- Colorado/Oregon – Focused on labeling laws
- 14+ states – Considering disclosure requirements
Agricultural lobbyist Suzi Gerber counters fear narratives:
We’re complementing traditional farming, not replacing it. By 2050, multiple solutions will coexist.Nebraska Cattlemen and Pork Producers echo this, advocating transparent labeling over outright bans.
Legal experts warn such measures risk antitrust scrutiny. Institute for Justice attorney Paul Sherman notes: When legislation openly favors established industries, courts increasingly question its legitimacy. With 26+ companies racing to scale lab-grown proteins, Nebraska’s move could position it against emerging food tech investments.