USA: Denver voters stop proposed slaughterhouse ban

Published Nov 6, 2024

Tridge summary

The article reports the failure of a ballot measure in Denver to pass, which would have required the closure of Superior Farms, the largest lamb packing plant in the United States, by 2026. The ordinance's rejection was attributed to a 64.56% opposition vote, with arguments against the ordinance highlighting its potential negative impacts on the economy and job market. These arguments were supported by a study from Colorado State University and significant financial contributions to the "Stop the Ban, Protect Jobs" campaign from various agricultural organizations and unions. The Democratic party in Denver also opposed the measure.

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Original content

The returns overnight from Denver showed the opposition vote was 64.56% compared to 35% who voted for the passing of the ordinance, according to the Denver election website. If the ordinance had been approved, Superior Farms in Denver, the largest lamb packing plant in the United States and the only facility in the city, would have needed to shut down by 2026. The Superior Farms location processes about 1,500 head of lamb per day, accounting for 15-20% of the total lamb harvesting in the United States. The facility’s functions cover harvest, fabrication and case-ready production. The company employs 160 people, of which nearly 80% are residents of Denver. An opposition group named “Stop the Ban, Protect Jobs” started a campaign early in 2024, stating its position that the ban unfairly targeted a 70-year-old employee-owned business. Over the last few months, the campaign explained the cost of shipping meat from out of state would increase along with the plant closure and job loss. ...

Source: Meat+Poultry