LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A bill that would end Nebraska’s status as the only state which prohibits meatpackers from owning hogs is facing resistance in the Legislature.

Supporters said Thursday that the measure would help preserve Nebraska’s hog industry. Critics say it would give packers too much leverage over small farms by allowing them to control the entire supply chain.

Sen. Ken Schilz of Ogallala says he introduced the bill to keep Nebraska’s hog industry growing on pace with nearby states and to prevent meatpackers from leaving.

Opponents say the contracts offered by packers impose tight controls on how the hogs are raised and place many of the risks onto producers, who are often saddled with debt to build their operations.