The U.S. pork industry has had a 100 percent legislative checkoff program since 1986. Congress created the Pork Checkoff as part of The Pork Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act of 1985. Pork producers had requested the legislation so they could take advantage of having all producers and importers participate in a checkoff program designed to strengthen the position of pork in the marketplace.

The National Pork Board executes specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy.

U.S. pork producers and importers pay $0.40 per $100 of value when pigs are sold and when pigs or pork products are brought into the United States.