The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) is having conversations with California’s Department of Food and Agriculture this month regarding requirements for the nation’s pork producers in preparation for the July 1 implementation of Proposition 12.

NPPC Chief Executive Officer Bryan Humphreys acknowledged last week that the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding California’s law banning the sale of pork products that aren’t raised according to the state’s minimum space requirements for livestock and poultry sent shock waves through the industry. Speaking at the World Pork Expo, Humphreys said discussions are ongoing with California to determine what follows for pork producers.

“The court has allowed a state to use its market power to impose policies on other states,” Humphreys said. “With higher costs and fewer choices, every American will be impacted by this decision.

“We are working with California to get clarity for our producers to ensure that there is a smooth transition for farmers and to ensure that consumers continue to have access to pork in grocery...