Policy Articles
New Guidance Available for Packers and Stockyards Act
Published August 25, 2021
The USDA issued new guidance on how to enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act. The enforcement policy now highlights how problematic provisions of the 2020 undue preferences rule will not apply to cases protecting producers from retaliation and racial discrimination.…Looking at a More Permanent Disaster Program
Published August 23, 2021
A more permanent disaster program may be considered as farm bill discussions begin this fall. “I’d like to see us address ad-hoc programs in the farm bill so we don’t need supplemental appropriations year-over-year,” said John Thune, South Dakota Senator.…House Lawmakers Return to Washington D.C.
Published August 23, 2021
House lawmakers are returning to Washington D.C. this week to consider budget resolution. A bipartisan infrastructure package may also be considered. The budget resolution is a blueprint for federal spending over a 10-year period. House Democrats are expected to get…Tax Policy Concerns Linger as Infrastructure Moves Forward
Published August 20, 2021
During a congressional panel discussion at Dakotafest, farmers and ranchers expressed concerns about changes in tax policy. South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds, a panel participant, said the concerns surround stepped up basis. "The loss of that and the federal estate…Including Biofuels in New Infrastructure Solutions
Published August 20, 2021
When the Senate passed the first phase bipartisan infrastructure package earlier this month, an investment in low carbon biofuels was not included. American Coalition for Ethanol CEO Brian Jennings still thinks that was a missed opportunity that shouldn't happen again.…Ag Retailers Disappointed with EPA’s Chlorpyrifos Ban
Published August 20, 2021
Agricultural Retailers Association President Daren Coppock is disappointed the EPA banned the use of chlorpyrifos for food crops. "Chlorpyrifos is an essential tool. There aren't a lot of good alternatives for the control it offers," says Coppock. "The other issue…Upper Midwest Dairy Industry Watching for More DMC Details
Published August 20, 2021
Dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest may not get as much of a payment in USDA’s Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program. This new program focuses on Class I fluid milk sales, while the Upper Midwest produces cheese. The USDA said…ND Ranchers Eligible for Water Supply Grants
Published August 20, 2021
North Dakota’s emergency water supply program is now open for applications. This program reimburses livestock producers with eligible losses for half of the eligible costs for a temporary water supply, equipment and hauling. Each farmer or rancher is eligible for…Seeking Solutions
Published August 19, 2021
South Dakota Farm Bureau President Scott VanderWal says cattle market transparency is a tough issue. The American Farm Bureau asked the Biden administration for an interim report from the Department of Justice. "We want to know whether if there's actual…