Policy Articles
Two New USDA Appointments
Published March 1, 2021
USDA announced two senior appointments on Monday. Dr. Dewayne Goldmon is the new Senior Advisor for Racial Equity to the Agriculture Secretary. Goldmon was previously with the National Black Growers Council. Serving as the Senior Advisor for Fair and Competitive…MN Budget Outlook Improves for 2022-23 Fiscal Year
Published March 1, 2021
Minnesota’s February budget outlook is better than the November forecast with the help of federal COVID relief. According to Minnesota’s latest economic forecast, released Friday, a budget shortfall is no longer anticipated for the 2022 – 2023 fiscal year. The…COVID Pandemic a Top Issue for NFU Convention
Published March 1, 2021
South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke thinks COVID will be the top issue at the National Farmers Union Convention this week. "Basically, one year ago was when we started being impacted by COVID. The pandemic showed us the dire…COVID Bill Moves to the Senate
Published March 1, 2021
After a party-line vote in the House early Saturday morning, the $1.9 trillion coronavirus assistance bill moves to the Senate this week. Unlike previous bills, there’s no direct support for farmers and ranchers. The House Agriculture Committee approved over $16…SD Senator Files Disapproval of Ag Department Merger
Published March 1, 2021
At least one South Dakota lawmaker opposes the proposed merger of the South Dakota Agriculture and Natural Resources Departments. Senate Minority Leader Troy Heinert filed a Senate Resolution of Disapproval in response to Governor Noem’s executive order on the merger.…Action Sought on Container Shipping Crisis
Published March 1, 2021
Due to high demand for imported goods into the United States, international shippers are rejecting agricultural products and sending containers overseas empty. The problem began in October. According to Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance President Bob Sinner, freight rates have…National Farmers Union Virtual Convention Focusing on Policy
Published March 1, 2021
The National Farmers Union virtual convention and annual meeting is taking place today and tomorrow. NFU President Rob Larew said the business of the organization is taking place at this meeting. "There will be many themes woven into the meeting…MDA Budget Bill Not Expected to be an Issue
Published February 27, 2021
With the state economic forecast out, lawmakers can now go to work on budget bills. House Agriculture Committee Chair Mike Sundin says the Minnesota Department of Agriculture budget is not expected to be an issue. "The ag budget is probably…Being a Better Steward of the Land
Published February 26, 2021
During Thursday’s House Agriculture Committee on climate change, Bismarck, North Dakota farmer Gabe Brown discussed the efforts he’s taking to be a better steward of the land. "We realize the importance of grazing animals. Our richest, healthiest soils were formed…