Lawmakers Pass Lab‑Grown Meat Ban After Heated Debate

The South Dakota Legislature has approved House Bill 1077, which would ban the manufacture and sale of cultivated‑protein food products in the state. The Senate passed the measure 18–16 after extended debate, sending it to the governor. The bill classifies lab‑grown meat as “adulterated food,” making its production or sale punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Supporters argued the technology threatens the state’s livestock industry, while opponents said the ban limits consumer choice and unfairly targets emerging food alternatives. Lawmakers also sparred over health concerns, moral objections, and comparisons to processed meats.