Policy Articles
USDA Addresses Aviation Fuel Tax Credits
Published September 15, 2023
USDA is making $400,000 available to fix the greenhouse gas emissions model so aviation fuel produced from corn-based ethanol is eligible for tax credits. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made that announcement during a conference hosted by Growth Energy. A decision…NASDA Updates its Policy
Published September 14, 2023
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture has adopted policy action items, including a fix for gaps in federal disaster programs. At the NASDA annual meeting in Wyoming, the state agricultural leaders endorsed clear labeling for cell-based meat products…H-2A Rule Change Proposed
Published September 13, 2023
New H-2A rules have been proposed by the Labor Department that “would strengthen protections for farm workers.” The proposal would make it easier for labor unions to contact and work with guest agriculture workers. It also protects H-2A workers from…Drought Concern Voiced at Grassroots Level
Published September 13, 2023
County Farm Bureau meetings are underway throughout Minnesota right now. Minnesota Farm Bureau District DIrector Shane Isane is attending many of these meetings and said drought is a frequent topic. "Our particular area has been very dry this summer," reports Isane,…Seeking a Fair and Updated Farm Bill
Published September 12, 2023
The Minnesota Corn Growers Association is asking lawmakers for a fair and updated farm bill. That includes an updated safety net. "The farm bill is based on 2012 cost of production and those costs have increased sharply," said Marlene Dufault,…Renewed Energy for Animal Agriculture
Published September 12, 2023
The North Dakota Legislature passed incentives earlier this year to grow animal agriculture in the state. Livestock development was also part of the conversation at the Next 5 Years Conference in Moorhead. "It's gotten renewed energy and vigor for a…USDA Announces Milk Loss Program
Published September 11, 2023
Following widespread weather-related disasters, supply chain issues and volatile markets, USDA has announced Milk Loss Program assistance for eligible dairy farms. MLP assistance helps offset losses is for the dairy farmers who dumped milk due to weather impacted delivery or…U.S.-India Announce Tariff Reduction
Published September 11, 2023
The United States and India have reached an agreement to lower tariffs on U.S. turkey exports to India. Tariffs will be lowered from 30 percent to five percent. “For too long, high tariffs have prevented American turkey farmers from exporting…The Energy Sector in a Time of Transition
Published September 11, 2023
The United States is transitioning its energy policy from a volume-based Renewable Fuels Standard to the low-carbon fuel standards. Larry Lemaster is with a company called Elevar Partners and was part of the Next 5 Years Conference. Lemaster said the…