Policy Articles
Waiting on the White House for the 2021 RVOs
Published August 30, 2021
The White House is in the process of reviewing the EPA’s proposed 2021 Renewable Volume Obligations. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper is not clear about the exact language of EPA’s proposal. "We're almost into September 2021 and…Ambassadors Nominated for China, Japan
Published August 30, 2021
President Joe Biden has nominated ambassadors to two key ag export markets, China and Japan. Former NATO ambassador Nicholas Burns was selected to oversee the embassy in Beijing and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel will represent the United States in…HOS Relief Provided in MN
Published August 30, 2021
Due to the ongoing drought, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has issued an executive order providing hours-of-service relief for truckers hauling livestock, hay, feed or water. This order is in place through the September 27th.Smith: Stepped-Up Basis Proposal Will Not Impact Family Farms
Published August 30, 2021
There have been questions about the treatment of stepped-up basis in the budget reconciliation bill. Minnesota Senator Tina Smith said this provision will not impact farmers who operating their own land or renting it out. "I understand why farmers are…Heitkamp Leads Tax Coalition
Published August 30, 2021
Former North Dakota Senator Heidi Heitkamp is chairing a new group called Save America’s Family Enterprises. This coalition is focused on the tax proposals being promoted in the budget reconciliation bill on Capitol Hill. "The provisions that have received I…Funding the Growing Climate Solutions Act
Published August 29, 2021
The U.S. House passed a budget resolution last week. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow has been working with House Agriculture Committee leaders on how to spend the money authorized by the resolution. "I can tell you we'll have robust…USDA Launches New Dairy Donation Program
Published August 29, 2021
The $400 million Dairy Donation Program will be funded through COVID-19 relief money. In this new program, eligible dairy organizations can partner with non-profit organizations that distribute food to individuals and families in need. "This new program is based on…MN Releases Temporary Hemp Rule
Published August 27, 2021
The State of Minnesota has adopted temporary new rules for industrial hemp production It outlines testing, licensing and reporting requirements. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will conduct a formal rule-making process before the temporary rule expires two years from now.Emergency Feed Transportation Assistance Reactivated
Published August 27, 2021
The North Dakota Emergency Commission has approved $2.5 million in funding to reactive the Emergency Feed Transportation Assistance program. This program reimburses farmers and ranchers for a portion of their hay transportation expenses. Governor Doug Burgum said this lowers the…