2026 SMA Foundation Scholarship Application | Southwest Meat Association

SMA Foundation Scholarship Application

Review the eligibility requirements before completing the application.

Application deadline is May 1, 2026 at 11:59pm CST.

We regret to inform you that the SMA Foundation Scholarship Application form has expired. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

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9696 E. Hwy 21, Ste. 200
Bryan, TX 77808
Telephone: 979-846-9011

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Brittany Moore and Lacey Bates introduce episode 2 of Meat Industry News, a biweekly 10–15 minute segment of the Meat People podcast, and cover four key updates. FSIS extended temporary overtime and holiday inspection fee reductions for eligible small (30%) and very small (75%) federally inspected meat, poultry, and egg product establishments through September 30, 2027, or until funding runs out; overtime inspection applies to services outside regular hours, with rates near $90/hour and holiday rates about $106/hour, and relief requires submitting FSIS Form 5200-16. USDA announced the Stand Up Program (up to $50 million) to help states establish or expand state meat inspection programs in partnership with FSIS; state programs must meet standards at least equal to federal requirements, but sales are generally limited within the state unless using Cooperative Interstate Shipment. The Senate Ag Committee advanced the Farm Bill 12–11, including language directing USDA and USTR to find a WTO-compliant path to reestablish mandatory country-of-origin labeling for beef. Finally, cattle imports from Mexico resumed via Douglas, Arizona on Aug. 24 under a phased reopening after New World screwworm-related closures, with 580–850 head/day moving and heavier cattle (700–900 lbs), while Santa Teresa and Columbus, New Mexico remain closed and future reopening depends on disease risk and progress under the joint action plan.

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Topics

01:10 FSIS fee relief extended

02:15 How overtime inspection works

03:19 How to apply for relief

04:06 USDA Stand Up program

05:46 State vs federal inspection

07:46 Farm Bill update

08:48 COOL language explained

09:59 Mexico cattle border update

10:59 Port capacity and outlook

12:28 Wrap-up and newsletter