Pork Producers Meet Lawmakers on Key Farm Issues
More than 100 pork producers from 23 states recently traveled to Washington, DC to take part in the spring Legislative Action Conference organized by the National Pork Producers Council. The main goal of the visit was to meet with members of Congress and discuss important policy issues facing the US pork industry.
Before visiting Capitol Hill, the producers attended a panel discussion focused on the current Congress national policy priorities and upcoming midterm elections. The session featured experts from government relations and public affairs fields and helped producers better understand the political environment in which farm decisions are made.
The discussion was guided by NPPC leadership and aimed to prepare participants for clear and effective conversations with lawmakers.
During their meetings with elected officials producers highlighted the need for quick approval of a new farm bill often called Farm Bill 20. They explained that the legislation should include a solution to the challenges created by California Proposition 12 which affects pork production and sales across the country. Producers stressed that inconsistent state rules can make farming more costly and difficult.
Another major topic was trade. Farmers urged leaders to protect US pork market access during the upcoming review of the United States Mexico Canada Agreement. Reliable trade relationships were described as essential for farm income and rural jobs.
Animal health was also a key concern. Producers asked for support and funding for the US Swine Health Improvement Plan, which strengthens biosecurity, improves disease tracking and protects the national herd.
Workforce issues were also discussed. Producers requested expansion of the H 2A visa program to allow year-round agricultural workers to help address ongoing labor shortages on farms.
Photo Credit: NPPC-Pork-producers-at--the-conference