Congressman Gabe Evans Introduces Resolution Standing Up for American Farmers and Ranchers

October 8, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Gabe Evans introduced a pro-animal agriculture resolution to stand united with America’s livestock producers and recognize the critical role animal agriculture plays in feeding Coloradan families, supporting rural communities and local economies. The resolution comes as farmers and ranchers across the country face rising input costs, prolonged drought periods, extreme weather conditions, workforce shortages, livestock disease outbreaks, and growing regulatory pressure. It pushes back against government mandates that limit consumer choice, increase food costs, and threaten the livelihoods of those who make American animal agriculture possible. “In Colorado, agriculture isn’t just an industry—it’s a way of life. Unfortunately, radical activists and politicians have spent years attacking animal agriculture with burdensome regulations and proposals that threaten small family farms, kill jobs, and drive up food costs at the grocery store. We saw it firsthand in Colorado when activists tried to shut down Superior Farms—Denver’s only livestock processing industry at the time—but was overwhelmingly rejected by Coloradans. My resolution sends a simple message: Cut red tape to support domestic livestock agriculture and protect consumer choice. I am proud to represent Colorado’s farmers and ranchers who work tirelessly every day to raise livestock, and I’m grateful for the essential products they provide to families across the state and nation. ”  –– Congressman Gabe Evans The resolution specifically highlights the importance of a strong domestic livestock industry in reducing U.S. reliance on foreign food production and strengthening our food security. It also recognizes that approximately 97% of U.S. farms are operated by families and that they collectively account for 85% of the total agricultural production value. This resolution is endorsed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Producers Council, Colorado Farm Bureau, Colorado Livestock Association, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Pork Producers Council, Colorado Wool Growers Association, Weld County Farm Bureau, Colorado Livestock Marketing Association, Colorado Egg Producers, National Chicken Council, American Sheep Industry Association, and Meat Institute. BACKGROUND: Animal agriculture is a critical part of America’s food supply, rural economy, and agricultural heritage. In 2024, radical activists created a ballot measure to permanently shut down livestock processing facilities in the city boundaries.While Denver voters rejected the measure by a wide margin, proposals such as Denver Initiated Ordinance 309 unfairly targets farmers and ranchers by imposing costly mandates, closing off markets, or confiscating agriculture operations. Permanent closures of small to mid-sized farms would devastate our local and national economies, which is why this resolution: Recognizes and thanks American agriculture workers involved in raising, processing, packaging, distributing, selling, and transporting animal agriculture products. Supports greater access to nutrient-dense animal products, particularly for vulnerable populations including mothers, infants, and seniors. Denounces government mandates that restrict consumer choice and increase food costs in pursuit of ideological policies. Calls on federal, state, and local governments to suspend unreasonable regulatory mandates on livestock production that harm American agriculture workers. Commits to advancing policies that prioritize the economic welfare and well-being of American farmers and ranchers. H.Res. 1598 was introduced with Representatives Jeff Crank (CO-05), Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Daniel Webster (FL-11), and Randy Fine (FL-06) as original cosponsors. Issues : Agriculture and Production