Policy Articles
Year Ends With Confirmation of Ag Trade Ambassador
Published December 23, 2022
As the lame duck session approached the finish line, the Senate confirmed Doug McKalip as the chief agricultural negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office. McKalip was nominated in July, but a hold was put on the confirmation. McKalip was…‘A Big Win for Agriculture’
Published December 22, 2022
U.S. Grains Council Director of Trade Policy Andrew Brandt is looking forward to working with Alexis Taylor in her new role at USDA. "I think her confirmation is a big win for all of agriculture," said Brandt. "We've worked together…STB Rules on Rail Disputes
Published December 21, 2022
The Surface Transportation Board has adopted two rules to streamline rate disputes between railroads and shippers. One rule establishes a voluntary arbitration program. The other rule offers a new procedure to resolve small rate disputes. The Association of American Railroads…Ten-Year Wolf Management Plan Released
Published December 21, 2022
The Minnesota DNR has finalized its vision for wolf management over the next ten years. Six goals were highlighted in the plan, including maintaining a resilient wolf population and educate the public about wolves. The report says less than two…Omnibus Includes Provisions for Agriculture
Published December 21, 2022
The Senate passed the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill. This bill includes $3.7 billion earmarked for disaster assistance for losses of revenue, quality and production in 2023. There’s $1.5 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers to improve navigation on…Sustainability Support
Published December 21, 2022
The year-end spending bill includes provisions to promote voluntary conservation practices to reduce high carbon emissions. This language would allow private sector funds to supplement federal conservation programs.U.S. Files Dispute Over Market Access
Published December 21, 2022
The United States has filed a new request for dispute settlement discussions with Canada. The U.S. claims Canada violates the USMCA tariff-rate quota provisions for dairy. The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council pledged their support for…Food and Fuel Research
Published December 21, 2022
The growing demand for soybean oil for biofuels is not having a significant impact on food prices. The United Soybean Board partnered with Purdue University on this Food and Fuel study. The research found the demand for biofuels had a…Telling the Biofuels Story
Published December 20, 2022
For the year ahead, the Minnesota Biofuels Association is reaching out to the 70 new members of the Minnesota Legislature to educate them about the benefits of ethanol. Executive Director Brian Werner says there is bipartisan support for biofuels, but…