Alabama has become the second state in the United States to ban the manufacture, sale, or distribution of lab-grown meat. Governor Kay Ivey signed the bill into law on May 7, with the law set to take effect on October 1. The bill, proposed by Republican Senator Jack Williams of the 34th District and vice chair of the Senate Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry Committee, targets food products made from cultured animal cells. Violators will face a Class C misdemeanor charge, along with fines and possible suspension or revocation of permits.

Just a few days earlier, on May 1, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a similar piece of legislation, SB1084, which effectively bans cultivated meat in the state. During a press conference in Wauchula, DeSantis criticized the World Economic Forum's support for alternative protein sources like lab-grown meat and insects, stating, "Take your fake lab-grown meat elsewhere. We’re not doing that in the state of Florida."

Alabama, ranked 14th in beef cattle numbers, and Florida, ranked 9th for beef cattle production, have both taken a stand that reflects the concerns of their respective local agricultural industries. Erin Beasley, executive vice president of the Alabama Cattleman's Association, cited consumer protection and the potential confusion at grocery stores as reasons for the legislation. She expressed relief at its passing and the sentiment that other states may follow suit to "put up a shield of protection" around citizens.

The Epoch Times Article