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October 15, 2019 – EPA’s Biofuels Fix is Another Broken Promise to American Farmers
A week and a half after announcing its intentions to offset a portion of the 4 billion gallons of demand for biofuels eliminated due to the ongoing misappropriation of small refinery exemptions (SREs), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released a supplemental proposed rule outlining how it plans to do so. Rather than basing relief on an actual three-year average of exempted gallons, as expected, the agency has instead suggested basing it on values recommended by the Department of Energy (DOE). The former would have increased the amount of biofuels in the transportation sector by approximately 1.35 billion gallons per year, while the latter will increase it by just 770 million gallons.
Read the news release here.
October 4, 2019 – Plan to Expand Biofuels a Step in the Right Direction; More Work Needed to Move Biofuels Industry Forward
After several months of negotiations and much fanfare, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a broad plan to offset a portion of the 4 billion gallons of demand for biofuels eliminated due to the ongoing misappropriation of small refinery exemptions (SREs). More specific details will be rolled out within the next week, but EPA is expected to release a supplemental proposed rule that would add about 1.35 billion gallons to its annual biofuel blending quota for 2020.
Read the news release here.
August 23, 2019 – Escalating Trade War Exacerbates Weak Farm Economy, Farmers Union Says
In retaliation against the United States’ most recent escalation in an ongoing trade war, China today announced that it will increase tariffs on $75 billion worth of American goods, including a number of agricultural products. Starting on September 1, the country plans raise tariffs on American soybeans from 25 percent to 30 percent and on pork from 50 percent to 60 percent. On December 1, they will increase tariffs on corn, sorghum and wheat from 25 percent to 35 percent.
Read the news release here.
August 2, 2019 – Bankruptcy Bill Will Help More Family Farmers Access Relief
The U.S. Senate yesterday passed the Family Farmer Relief Act of 2019, a bill that will expand family farmers’ access to relief under Chapter 12 farm bankruptcy rules by increasing the debt limit from $4.2 million to $10 million. The bill, which was approved by the House of Representatives last week, now awaits President Donald Trump’s signature.
Read the news release here.
July 31, 2019 – RFS Obligations Must Account for Hardship Waivers
Following the release of its disappointing 2020 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today hosted a public hearing to gather feedback from farmers and other stakeholders on the proposed rule.
The proposal would maintain the current volume of corn ethanol currently required to be supplied to the transportation sector, and would only increase overall biofuel use by 120 million gallons. By contrast, the ongoing misappropriation of RFS small refinery exemptions (SREs) to multinational corporations has eliminated demand for biofuels by 2.6 billion gallons.
Read the news release here.
July 25, 2019 – USDA Releases Details for Market Facilitation Program
Two months after announcing its intentions to provide a new package to assist family farmers and ranchers coping with trade damages, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released finalized details about the timing and calculation of direct payments to producers through the Market Facilitation Program (MFP). The agency has earmarked up to $14.5 billion for the program to be distributed in three separate tranches. Eligible producers can submit applications for the first tranche beginning next Monday, July 29, through December 6, 2019, and payments will be sent out starting in mid- to late August.
Read the news release here.
July 23, 2019 – Farmers Union Announces New Education Priorities
Today’s farmers have to do more than just grow food; running a successful operation requires a broad range of skills, including marketing, business management, mechanical repair, and agronomy. To more effectively meet the growing needs of family farmers and ranchers, National Farmers Union Foundation (NFUF) has refocused its general farm education programs around the Farm and Ranch Business Health Assessment(BHA) and a new Farm Business Toolbox. These free resources will help farmers identify their operations’ strengths and weaknesses and offer opportunities to improve their business acumen.
Read the news release here.
July 18, 2019 – NIFA, ERS Relocation Detrimental to Researchers, Family Farmers, and Consumers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) relocation of two major research agencies is “misguided” and “detrimental to family farmers and ranchers and rural communities,” according to the nation’s oldest general farm organization.
Read the news release here.
July 5, 2019 – EPA’s RFS Obligations Are Another Setback for American Farmers
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released its proposed renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for the year 2020. The proposal would set required biofuel use at 20.04 billion gallons next year, a marginal increase over this year’s 19.92 billion gallons. The difference is almost entirely attributable to an expansion of cellulosic biofuel, from 420 million gallons to 540 million gallons.The rule maintains the current 15-million-gallon target for corn ethanol.
Read the news release here.
June 5, 2019 – Hearing Highlights Implications of ERS, NIFA Relocation for Agricultural Research
During a hearing held today by the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research, key stakeholders expressed concerns about the current and potential ramifications of reorganizing and relocating two major agricultural research agencies. In accordance with previous announcements, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is continuing with plans to move the Economic Research Service (ERS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) outside of the nation’s capital and realign ERS under the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE).
Read the news release here.
May 31, 2019 – NFU Applauds Year-Round Use E15, Urges Further Investments in Biofuels
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued a final rule that will permit year-round sale of gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol, also known as E15. The rule’s finalization comes just in time to allow for summertime use of E15 this year, but does not extend to higher blends of ethanol, such as E30.
Read the news release here.
May 23, 2019 – USDA Announces Details of Trade Assistance Package
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released initial details for a trade assistance package to support family farmers and ranchers struggling with oversupply and low prices due to international trade conflicts. The agency plans to allocate as much as $16 billion, including $14.5 billion in direct payments to producers through the Market Facilitation Program (MFP). Additionally, USDA has designated $1.4 billion for commodity purchases through the Food Purchase and Distribution Program (FPDP) as well as $100 million for the development of new export markets through the Agricultural Trade Promotion Program (ATP).
Read the news release here.
May 15, 2019 – Trade Assistance Must Help All Affected Farmers, NFU Says
Following the recent escalation of trade tensions between China and the United States that will likely exacerbate the erosion of agricultural export markets and further depress commodity prices, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is expected to announce a trade assistance package to support struggling family farmers and ranchers.
Read the news release here.
May 9, 2019 – Farmers Need Lifeboat to Survive Low Prices, Oversupply Caused by Trade War
On the heels of unsuccessful trade negotiations with China, the White House is expected to increase tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods early Friday morning. President Donald Trump has also threatened to levy duties on an additional $325 billion worth of imports, which, if implemented, would mean that nearly all U.S. imports from China would be subject to tariffs. In response, Beijing plans to enforce “necessary countermeasures,” on top of the tariffs they have already imposed on $110 billion worth of U.S. products.
Read the news release here.
April 29, 2019 – NFU Supports E15 Waiver, Pathway for Mid-Level Ethanol Blends
In the midst of significant financial stress in the U.S. farm economy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must deliver on the promises of President Trump and the intent of Congress to expand the use of biofuels and, therefore, demand for U.S. farm products, according to National Farmers Union (NFU). The family farm organization submitted comments today to EPA on the agency’s proposed rule to allow year-round use of E15 gasoline.
Read the news release here.
April 25, 2019 – Farmer’s Share of the Food Dollar Falls to All-Time Low
For every dollar American consumers spend on food, U.S. farmers and ranchers earn just 14.6 cents, according to a report recently released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS). This value marks a 17 percent decline since 2011 and the smallest portion of the American food dollar that farmers have received since the USDA began reporting these data in 1993.
Read the news release here.
April 18, 2019 – NFU Urges Implementation of E15 Waiver, Common-Sense Provisions for Higher Level Blends
As the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) works towards allowing year-round use of E15 gasoline, National Farmers Union (NFU) is concerned EPA’s proposed rule will make it harder for retailers to sell higher level blends of ethanol.
Read the news release here.
April 11, 2019 – New Ag Census Provides Better Picture of Family Farm Agriculture, NFU Says
The U.S. Department of Agriculture today released the results of the 2017 Census of Agriculture, the most complete set of data for American agriculture available. The Census, taken every five years, provides an abundance of information about land use, farm ownership and decision-making, demographics, production practices, income and expenditures.
Read the news release here.
April 3, 2019 – Farmers Union Urges Trump Against ‘Disastrous’ Closing of the Southern Border
Amidst escalating rhetoric and threats from President Donald Trump to close the U.S.-Mexico border, National Farmers Union (NFU) today insisted the President avoid such a “disastrous” decision, which would effectively cripple trade with U.S. agriculture’s top trading partner.
Read the news release here.
March 27, 2019 – Hearing Highlights Impacts of ERS, NIFA Relocation on Family Farmers, Consumers, Researchers
Highlighting concerns among legislators, farmers, rural residents, consumers and researchers for the proposed reorganization and relocation of two U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) research agencies, the U.S. House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee today held a hearing to examine the impacts of such a move. USDA has initiated a process to move the Economic Research Service (ERS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) outside of the nation’s capital and place the ERS under the purview of the Chief Economist.
Read the news release here.
March 14, 2019 – U.S. Ethanol Consumption Declines for First Time in 20 Years
For the first time in two decades, ethanol consumption declined in the United States from 2017 to 2018, according to the Renewable Fuels Association. The decline follows two years of a dramatic spike in waivers being provided to oil refiners by EPA to subvert the requirements of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The waivers have destroyed demand for at least 2.6 billion gallons of ethanol.
Read the news release here.
March 12, 2019 – NFU Applauds Release of E15 Waiver Proposal
In a move to expand use of higher level blends of ethanol, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued a proposed rule to allow the year-round sale of E15, or gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol. The timing of the proposed rule will hopefully allow EPA to issue a final rule by June 1, the start of the summer driving season. Sales of E15 gasoline are currently prohibited during the summer in many states.
Read the news release here.
March 11, 2019 – President’s Budget Yet Again Neglects Severity of Farm Economy
President Donald Trump today revealed his proposed fiscal year 2020 budget, proposing cuts to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other federal agencies in order to increase spending on a proposed border wall and defense initiatives.
Read the news release here.
March 7, 2019 – NFU Joins Coalition in Highlighting Importance of Carbon Capture
National Farmers Union (NFU) joined the Carbon Capture Coalition in submitting a letter to leaders in Congress to highlight the importance of “carbon capture research, development, and commercial deployment as an essential component of a broader strategy to decarbonize power generation and key industry sectors by midcentury” to meet climate goals.
Read the news release here.
March 5, 2019 – NFU Concludes 117th Anniversary Convention
The National Farmers Union (NFU) 117th Anniversary Convention concluded today following the adoption of the organization’s policy book and special orders of business. More than 460 family farmers and ranchers convened in Bellevue, Washington, to set organizational policy positions that seek to better the lives of American farm and ranch families and the vibrancy of rural communities.
Read the news release here.
March 4, 2019 – Gene Paul, Paul Symens Awarded Farmers Union’s Highest Honor
Family farm agriculture endures in the social fabric of the United States and as the backbone of a safe and secure national food system because of the tireless advocacy and hard work of men and women across the industry. National Farmers Union (NFU) today presented its Meritorious Service Award, the organization’s highest honor, to two of these individuals at the NFU 117th Anniversary Convention.
Read the news release here.
March 4, 2019 – Farmers Union Honors Joel Heitkamp for Excellence in Agriculture Communications
For well over a decade, broadcaster Joel Heitkamp of North Dakota has given agriculture and rural issues a significant platform on his live, three-hour radio program, “News and Views.” For his work in elevating the issues facing family farmers, ranchers, and their communities, National Farmers Union (NFU) today awarded Heitkamp with the 2019 Milt Hakel Agriculture Communications Award.
Read the news release here.
March 3, 2019 – NFU Kicks Off 117th Anniversary Convention
National Farmers Union (NFU) officially convened its 117th Anniversary Convention this afternoon in Bellevue, Washington, to celebrate American farm families and set the organization’s policy for the coming year. More than 460 Farmers Union members from across the country are gathered for the annual event, which runs through March 5.
Read the news release here.
February 26, 2019 – NFU Urges Secretary Perdue to Work with Congress on Improvements to the Farm Safety Net
As the troubled farm economy pushes more and more American family farmers and ranchers into significant financial stress, National Farmers Union (NFU) today urged U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to work with Congress to make significant enhancements to the farm safety net.
Read the news release here.
February 19, 2019 – NFU’s College Conference on Cooperatives Continues Excellence in Cooperative Education
National Farmers Union (NFU) hosted 71 students in Minneapolis, Minnesota, last weekend for its annual College Conference on Cooperatives (CCOC). The three-day conference provides an interactive learning experience for American agriculture’s next generation on the importance, structure and operations of various types of cooperative groups.
Read the news release here.
February 7, 2019 – NFU Applauds Congressional Impetus on Climate Change
U.S. Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts and U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York today released a framework for what they call a “Green New Deal.” The resolution is meant to kickstart broad discussions on how the U.S. will both mitigate and adapt to climate change, which is current projected to drastically alter the U.S. economic and social stability.
Read the news release here.
February 5, 2019 – NFU Beginning Farmer Institute Accepting Applications for Class of 2019-2020
National Farmers Union (NFU) today announced the opening of the application period for its Beginning Farmer Institute (BFI) program class of 2019-2020. NFU encourages new farmers of any age from operations of any size, type or geography to apply for the class.
Read the news release here.
January 29, 2019 – NFU Board Urges Significant Strengthening of the Family Farm Safety Net
As the slump in farm commodity prices persists and trade disputes compound these market challenges, family farmers’ and ranchers’ economic security is at significant risk, according to the National Farmers Union (NFU) Board of Directors. The NFU Board passed a resolution calling on the administration and Congress to work together to strengthen the farm safety net to help farm families weather the coming years.
Read the news release here.
January 18, 2019 – NFU Board Calls for Immediate End to Government Shutdown
The partial government shutdown—soon to enter its fifth week—is causing harm and exacerbating issues already facing American family farmers and ranchers as they look to sell their crops, acquire financing and prepare for the coming year. As such, the National Farmers Union (NFU) Board of Directors today adopted a resolution calling for an immediate reopening of the federal government.
Read the news release here.
January 10, 2019 – USDA to Send Trade Relief to JBS, Brazil’s Largest Meatpacker
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will purchase roughly 1.8 million pounds of pork products from Brazilian firm JBS, one of the world’s largest meatpackers, using funds appropriated by the Trump Administration to help American family farmers and ranchers weather the administration’s trade war.
Read the news release here.
December 19, 2018 – NFU Backs USDA-FDA Joint Oversight of Cell Culture Technology
The nation’s second largest general farm organization today backed efforts by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish a joint regulatory framework overseeing production and sale of animal cell culture technology.
Read the news release here.
December 18, 2018 – USDA Trade Aid Falls “Woefully Short” of Meaningful Support
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it will move ahead with the second and final round of Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments, which were developed this past summer to provide relief to farmers and ranchers struggling with low farm prices due to trade volatility from the administration’s trade war with China.
Read the news release here.
December 13, 2018 – Farmers Union Insists Trade Payments Happen Immediately
Amidst reports that the White House is delaying the second round of Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments, National Farmers Union (NFU) is insisting the administration move forward with the payments and develop a long-term solution to mitigate substantial market loss for U.S. farm exports.
Read the news release here.
December 11, 2018 – NFU Statement on 2018 Farm Bill Compromise
The Farm Bill conference committee conferees today released the text of a compromise Farm Bill, largely the effort of House and Senate Agriculture Committee leadership resolving differences between the House and Senate versions of the 2018 Farm Bill. If approved by both chambers within the next week and a half, the legislation will be on President Trump’s desk and awaiting approval before the end of the year.
Read the news release here.
December 11, 2018 – Mid-Level Ethanol Blends Are the Transportation Fuel of the 21st Century, NFU Says
As Congress looks to revamp and coordinate federal-level policies that govern the transportation fuels and vehicles sectors, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging legislators to expand use of high-octane, mid-level blends of ethanol in the transportation fuel supply. In doing so, policymakers have the opportunity to create lasting national policy that builds on the significant economic, environmental, and national security benefits associated with increased biofuel production and use.
Read the news release here.
November 30, 2018 – NFU Deeply Disappointed in EPA Decision to Ignore Waivers, Intent of Law in New RFS Obligations
The Trump Administration today finalized 2019 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), setting the amount of renewable fuels that need to be blended in the transportation fuel supply at 19.92 billion gallons. The rule maintains the current 15-million-gallon target for corn ethanol and increases cellulosic and advanced biofuel requirements by 130 million gallons and 630 million gallons, respectively.
Read the news release here.
November 30, 2018 – GIPSA Agency Elimination a Blow to Competitive Markets for Family Farmers, NFU Says
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that it will be eliminating the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) as a standalone agency and consolidate its functions into the work of the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Read the news release here.
November 21, 2018 – Farmers Receive 11 Cents of the Thanksgiving Food Dollar, NFU Farmer’s Share Shows
Farmers and ranchers take home just 11.3 cents from every dollar that consumers spend on their Thanksgiving dinner meals, according to the annual Thanksgiving edition of the National Farmers Union (NFU) Farmer’s Share publication. The popular Thanksgiving Farmer’s Share compares the retail food price of traditional holiday dinner items to the amount the farmer receives for each item they grow or raise.
Read the news release here.
November 1, 2018 – Over 200 Farm, Food and Rural Groups Endorse Agribusiness Merger Moratorium Bills
Today, a broad-based coalition of 213 farm, food, rural, faith and consumer advocacy organizations delivered a letter to Congress endorsing food and agribusiness merger moratorium bills and urging members of the House and Senate to cosponsor the legislation. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Mark Pocan (D-WI) introduced the Food and Agribusiness Merger Moratorium and Antitrust Review Act of 2018 companion bills this year (S.3404/H.R.6800).
Read the news release here.
October 29, 2018 – NFU Urges Administration to Honor Commitment to Biofuels
Throughout his campaign for and tenure as president, Donald Trump has consistently pledged to support American-grown biofuels. However, his administration has too often failed to follow through on those promises in a timely fashion.
In the most recent of such instances, President Trump announced his intentions to allow the use of E15 gasoline in summer months. Though National Farmers Union (NFU), a grassroots policy organization that has long advocated the expanded use of biofuels as a means to promote the economic viability of family farmers and the vibrancy of rural communities, was initially encouraged by the news, little has been done to enact the proposal.
Read the news release here.
October 9, 2018 – White House Announces E15 Waiver, RIN Transparency
President Donald Trump today announced the administration’s intentions to allow the use of E15 gasoline in summer months and bring greater transparency to the trading of biofuel credits, known as Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs). The announcement is an attempt to mitigate a bitter battle between U.S. biofuel and oil industries over the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), the nation’s premier biofuel policy.
Read the news release here.
October 1, 2018 – Farmers Union Hails Cooperatives and the Empowerment They Bring to Family Farmers, Rural America
National Farmers Union (NFU) today joined the cooperative community in kicking off National Cooperative Month. NFU President Roger Johnson hailed the nation’s many and varied cooperatives, highlighting the political and economic might that they have brought to family farmers, ranchers and rural America for more than a century.
Read the news release here.
October 1, 2018 – U.S., Canada, Mexico Reach Deal on New Trade Pact
In a break to what has been more than a year of feuding and tense negotiations, the U.S. has reached an agreement with Canada and Mexico on a new trade pact, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Read the news release here.
September 27, 2018 – Farmers Union Urges Administration to Allow E15 Year-Round, Reconcile Billions of Gallons of Lost Demand for Biofuels
Ahead of an expected Trump Administration announcement on changes to the nation’s biofuel policies, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging the President to follow through on his promises to support American family farmers and the biofuel industry by allowing year-round use of E15 gasoline, ceasing undue hardship waivers to oil refiners, and making up for lost demand as a result of previous waivers.
Read the news release here.
September 18, 2018 – White House Ups the Ante in Trade Dispute with China
In a move that will further escalate trade tensions, the Trump administration yesterday announced its intention to place a 10 percent tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods and threatened to levy tariffs on an additional $267 billion worth of imports. The Chinese government has already responded in kind with tariffs on $60 billion worth of American imports.
Read the news release here.
September 12, 2018 – 350 Family Farm Advocates ‘Fly-In’ to Washington to Lobby Congress, the Administration
Amidst an historic decline in net farm income and added disruptions in agricultural trade and biofuel markets, 350 family farmers and ranchers traveled to the nation’s capital this week to meet face-to-face with top Trump administration officials and members of Congress as they decide on a number of legislative and regulatory priorities for family farmers and their communities.
Read the news release here.
August 30, 2018 – Net Farm Income to Drop 13 Percent in 2018, USDA Projects
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS) today projected net farm income to be $65.7 billion in 2018, a $9.8 billion, 13 percent decrease from 2017.
Read the news release here.
August 27, 2018 – US, Mexico Reach Agreement on Trade
President Donald Trump today announced that the U.S. and Mexico have reached a deal on terms to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), putting pressure on Canada to reach agreement with the two nations jointly or through separate bilateral agreements.
Read the news release here.
August 27, 2018 – USDA Announces Details of Trade Aid for Farmers
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced the details of the administration’s emergency aid package for farmers who are being targeted in an escalating U.S. trade war with China and other top trading partners.
Read the news release here.
August 17, 2018 – NFU Urges Increase in Biofuel Requirements, Rejection of Attempts to Undermine RFS
The administration must continue to build on the success of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and promote expanded use of American-grown biofuels if it is to promote the economic viability of family farmers and the vibrancy of rural communities, that according to the nation’s second largest general farm organization.
Read the news release here.
August 16, 2018 – U.S. Beef Producers Disadvantaged by Current “Product of U.S.A” Labeling Standards
Current federal meat labeling standards are disadvantaging U.S. family beef producers by allowing products born, raised, or slaughtered outside of the United States to carry the “Product of the U.S.A.” label. These standards need to be changed immediately, according to the nation’s second largest general farm organization.
Read the news release here.
July 31, 2018 – NFU Emphasizes Severity of Trade Dispute, Urges Long-Term Solutions in Farm Bill
In a letter sent today to congressional leadership, National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson emphasized the need to address agricultural economic hardships in the 2018 Farm Bill. The NFU Board of Directors unanimously approved the motion to send this letter during a meeting held Monday afternoon.
Read the news release here.
July 24, 2018 – White House Announces Trade Aid for Farmers
The Trump administration today announced a $12 billion plan to provide emergency aid to farmers amidst an escalating trade war with China and other trading partners. The plan will include direct assistance, a food purchase and distribution program, and a trade promotion program.
Read the news release here.
July 18, 2018 – House Votes to Send Farm Bill to Conference
The U.S. House of Representatives voted today to send the farm bill to conference, the process by which the House and U.S. Senate remedy differences between their respective versions of the farm bill. A conference committee of members from the House and Senate could begin meeting as early as next week.
Read the news release here.
June 15, 2018 – Reality of China Trade Tensions Demands Strong Plan to Protect Family Farmers and Ranchers, NFU Says
President Donald Trump today announced that his administration will impose 25 percent tariffs on Chinese technology imports to the tune of $50 billion. The first round of tariffs, worth $34 billion, are set to take effect on July 6.
Read the news release here.
June 14, 2018 – NFU Announces Twenty Participants for the 2018-19 Beginning Farmer Institute
National Farmers Union (NFU) today announced 20 beginning farmers and ranchers from across the United States to take part in the 2018-19 Beginning Farmer Institute (BFI) program. The Institute empowers the success of America’s next generation of farmers by providing mentorship, technical training and leadership development to its participants.
Read the news release here.
June 13, 2018 – NFU Statement on Senate Ag Committee Farm Bill Passage
The U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee today advanced its version of the 2018 Farm Bill by a vote of 20-1. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell signaled he intends to bring the bill up for a vote on the floor prior to the Senate’s July 4 recess.
Read the news release here.
June 12, 2018 – NFU Highlights Positives of Senate Ag Farm Bill, Makes Recommendations on Amendments at Committee Level
In advance of Wednesday’s Senate Agriculture Committee markup of the 2018 Farm Bill, National Farmers Union (NFU) highlighted positives in the current draft of the bill and sent vote recommendations on amendments to members of the committee.
Read the news release here.
May 29, 2018 – NFU Condemns DOJ Approval of Monsanto Acquisition by Bayer
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) today approved German drug and chemical giant Bayer’s $62.5 billion acquisition of Monsanto. The deal will consolidate control of more than a quarter of the world’s seed and pesticides market and create the largest seed and crop chemicals company in the world.
Read the news release here.
May 15, 2018 – Farmers Union Urges USDA to Proactively Address Farm Suicide Crisis
Many farmers and ranchers are coping with alarming levels of stress, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) should serve a critical role in providing support to farmers in crisis, according to the nation’s second largest general farm organization.
Read the news release here.
April 19, 2018 – NFU Lauds Congressional Support for Long-term Farm Safety Net Solution to Potential Trade Damages
In a letter sent to President Donald Trump yesterday, twenty members of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee urged the administration to support long-term solutions in the Farm Bill that would ensure an adequate farm safety net for family farmers and ranchers who are enduring a depressed farm economy and threats of retaliatory tariffs on farm products.
Read the news release here.
April 19, 2018 – NFU Applauds Introduction of FARMERS FIRST Bill in Senate
A bipartisan group of Senators today introduced legislation in the U.S. Senate to provide mental health resources in rural America to address the alarmingly high rate of suicide amongst farmers and ranchers.
Read the news release here.
April 18, 2018 – Current House Farm Bill Fails to Meet Needs of Family Farmers
The U.S. House Agriculture Committee today marked up the 2018 Farm Bill, H.R. 2, sending the bill to the full U.S. House of Representatives for its consideration. National Farmers Union (NFU), the nation’s second largest general farm organization, opposes the legislation as it is currently written, as it fails to provide an adequate safety net to family farmers and consumers, fails to support the long-term sustainability of family farms and ranches, and fails to ensure fair and diverse markets for farmers and ranchers. In a series of recommendations released today, NFU urged House members to make significant improvements on the floor prior to passing the bill.
Read the news release here.
April 12, 2018 – NFU Appreciates House Ag Committee Work on Farm Bill, Urges Stronger Provisions for Family Farmers Amidst Financial Struggles
U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway today released the heavily anticipated text of a new Farm Bill. National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson thanked the committee for their work to put together a farm bill and encouraged Congress to work together in a bipartisan fashion to advance a stronger farm bill for family farmers in 2018.
Read the news release here.
April 12, 2018 – NFU Applauds E15 Waiver, Says More Needs to be Done for Higher Blends of Ethanol
President Donald Trump today announced the administration would allow the year-round sale of E15, or gasoline blends comprised of 15 percent ethanol, which had previously been barred from being sold in the summer. National Farmers Union (NFU) applauded the President’s move and called on the administration to eliminate similar barriers to expanded use of higher blends of ethanol.
Read the news release here.
April 4, 2018 – EPA’s Undermining of RFS Through Waivers Must Cease, NFU Says
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has improperly handled the administration of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) by lowering total volume requirements and granting “hardship waivers” to large corporations, according to National Farmers Union (NFU).
Read the news release here.
April 4, 2018 – NFU Calls for Plan to Protect Family Farmers from Brunt of Trade War
In the latest of a series of tariff threats between the United States and China, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOC) this morning announced plans to impose a 25 percent tariff on $50 billion worth of U.S. goods, including soybeans corn, beef, and other agricultural products.
Read the news release here.
April 3, 2018 – EPA Administrator Issued RFS Waivers to Large Refiner: Reuters
According to Reuters, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) exempted one of the nation’s largest oil refining companies from having to comply with the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in 2016. The agency granted “hardship waivers” to three of the refiners’ operations despite the corporation’s net profits of $1.5 billion last year.
Read the news release here.
March 20, 2018 – NFU Celebrates National Agriculture Day
As the national agriculture community joins together to celebrate National Agriculture Day, National Farmers Union (NFU) is recognizing family farmers and ranchers for the wide array of contributions they make to consumers’ everyday life. This year’s National Ag Day theme is “Food for Life.”
Read the news release here.
March 6, 2018 – NFU Concludes 116th Anniversary Convention
The National Farmers Union (NFU) 116th Anniversary Convention concluded today following the adoption of the organization’s policy book and special orders of business. Nearly 500 family farmers and ranchers convened in Kansas City, Missouri, to engage in thoughtful policy deliberations and celebrate family agriculture.
Read the news release here.
March 4, 2018 – NFU Commences 116th Anniversary Convention
National Farmers Union (NFU) officially convened its 116th Anniversary Convention this afternoon in Kansas City, Missouri. More than 450 Farmers Union members from across the country are gathered for the annual event, which runs through March 6.
Read the news release here.
February 26, 2018 – Farm Groups Caution President Against Weakening RFS
Ahead of a Tuesday White House meeting on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), National Farmers Union (NFU) and five other prominent farm organizations are urging President Trump to avoid seeking changes that would weaken the nation’s premier biofuel policy. The meeting will bring together key lawmakers and Cabinet members to discuss escalating tensions over the RFS between oil industry and ethanol industry interests.
Read the news release here.
February 12, 2018 – Budget Proposal Another Blow to Family Farmers
The White House today released its proposed fiscal year (FY) 2019 budget. Over the next decade, the $4.4 trillion budget would severely cut many programs that family farmers and ranchers and rural Americans rely on, including $48.6 billion from Farm Bill programs, $3.7 billion from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), $213 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP), $554 billion from Medicare, and $250 billion from Medicaid. These proposed cuts come on the heels of a massive tax cut for corporations and wealthy Americans as well as the fifth straight year of projected declines in net farm income.
Read the news release here.
February 12, 2018 – Plan Seeks to Address Rural Infrastructure Needs
The White House today released its principles to rebuild America’s long-neglected infrastructure. The plan includes $200 billion in federal investment over ten years, $50 billion of which is designated for rural projects.
Read the news release here.
February 7, 2018 – Farmers Union Launches Farm Bill Campaign
American family farmers and ranchers are enduring the worst economic slide in generations, and they need Congress to pass a Farm Bill in 2018 to strengthen the farm safety net. In order to educate the general public and to generate support for a Farm Bill to be passed this year, National Farmers Union (NFU) and Farmers Union state divisions have developed a digital campaign, complete with a new website, a Farm Bill video, animated short videos, weekly promotions and a petition. The family farm organization is calling on Congress to strengthen programs that support family farm agriculture, vibrant rural communities, a clean environment, and hungry Americans.
Read the news release here.
February 2, 2018 – Pruitt Backtrack on RFS Troubles Farmers, NFU Says
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt yesterday repeated his calls for reform to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and signaled his agency would take a more conservative approach to setting RFS volume obligations each year. The comments are a direct contradiction of President Trump and Administrator Pruitt’s own stated intent to administer the law—a significant economic pillar of farming and rural communities—as written.
Read the news release here.
January 22, 2018 – Farmers Union Urges Increased Funding for Farm Safety Net, Releases Priorities for Farm Bill
Given the persistent and ongoing economic challenges in farming and rural economies, National Farmers Union (NFU) is calling on Congress to increase funding for farm programs in the farm bill and pass the legislation as soon as possible. The NFU Board of Directors recently passed a resolution to this effect, outlining requirements for a farm bill that family farmers and ranchers can support.
Read the news release here.
January 17, 2018 – Farmers Union Urges Restoration of Organic Livestock Welfare Standard
While bad actors in private industry pose consistent threats to the integrity of the organic food label, the federal government should not. Yet a recent decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to withdraw the Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices (OLPP) rule does just that, and it should be reversed immediately, according to National Farmers Union (NFU).
Read the news release here.
December 19, 2017 – House Disaster Aid Package Offers First Steps to Fixes for Cotton and Dairy
The U.S. House Appropriations Committee last night unveiled an $81 billion disaster aid package that includes important provisions for cotton growers and limited support for dairy producers. Farmers in both industries are in need of appropriations fixes prior to the start of the next farm bill. The House proposal offsets part of the costs of the changes by initiating nutrition infrastructure reforms. National Farmers Union (NFU) supports comparable, meaningful changes for each industry, yet remains opposed to farm programs being pitted against nutrition programs.
Read the news release here.
December 19, 2017 – NFU Urges Congress to Vote Against “Severely Flawed” Tax Reform Conference Bill
As the U.S. Congress readies to vote on a major overhaul of the nation’s tax system, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging lawmakers to vote against the current plan because of its regressive structure and devastating implications for the nation’s financial standing, farm program spending, and health care affordability for family farmers and ranchers.
Read the news release here.
December 15, 2017 – USDA to Rescind Organic Livestock and Poultry Rules to Detriment of Family Organic Producers and Consumers, NFU Says
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today their intent to withdraw the Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices (OLPP) final rule. The rule was finalized in January 2017, but placed on hold when the new administration took office. National Farmers Union (NFU) supports the OLPP rule’s intent, as it would improve the consistency and integrity of organic livestock practices and labeling.
Read the news release here.
November 30, 2017 – RFS Volume Obligations a “Missed Opportunity,” NFU Says
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced final 2018 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The agency will maintain the corn ethanol requirement at its current levels, and increase cellulosic and advanced biofuel requirements slightly from their July 2017 proposal. It will also stagnate biodiesel requirements at 2.1 billion gallons, well short of the industry’s capacity.
Read the news release here.
November 29, 2017 – Current Tax Reform Plan Disadvantages Family Farmers and Ranchers, NFU Says
As the U.S. Senate readies to vote on a major overhaul of the nation’s tax system, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging lawmakers to vote against the current plan because it benefits the nation’s largest corporations and wealthiest citizens at the expense of family farmers, ranchers, and the middle class.
Read the news release here.
November 21, 2017 – Farmers Receive 11 Cents of Thanksgiving Retail Food Dollar, NFU Farmer’s Share Shows
Farmers and ranchers take home just 11.4 cents from every dollar that consumers spend on their Thanksgiving dinner meals, according to the annual Thanksgiving edition of the National Farmers Union (NFU) Farmer’s Share publication. The popular Thanksgiving Farmer’s Share compares the retail food price of traditional holiday dinner items to the amount the farmer receives for each item they grow or raise.
Read the news release here.
November 16, 2017 – NFU Alarmed by House Passage of Tax Reform Bill
The U.S. House of Representatives today voted 227-205 to approve the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a bill that would provide tax cuts and breaks to corporations and wealthy Americans at an estimated cost of $1.5 trillion.
Read the news release here.
November 14, 2017 – Congressional Tax Plans Jeopardize the Farm Safety Net, CBO Analysis Says
Amidst the steepest drop in farm profitability in a generation, U.S. Congressional leadership is proposing tax reform legislation that would jeopardize all funding for farm bill commodity safety net programs.
Read the news release here.
November 7, 2017 – Farm Groups Urge President Trump to Implement Farmer Fair Practices Rules
National Farmers Union joined a coalition of 82 farm, rural and consumers groups today in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to implement the Farmer Fair Practices Rules via executive order. The rules would provide the most basic of protections to American family farmers and ranchers who are enduring unfair and abusive practices as a result of extremely consolidated agricultural marketplaces.
Read the news release here.
November 2, 2017 – Shift to More Regressive Taxation Would Increase Burden on Family Farmers and Ranchers
U.S. House of Representatives leadership today released its blueprint for sweeping tax reform, including significant cuts to individual and corporate tax rates and eventual repeal of the estate tax. The plan is estimated to cost $1.51 trillion over the next decade.
Read the news release here.
October 19, 2017 – Trump Administration Must Right the Ship on Biofuels Through 2018 RFS Obligations
As embattled farm, biofuel, and rural communities and economies look to the Trump Administration to maintain promises to support American biofuel production, National Farmers Union (NFU) is calling on the administration to increase Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume obligations when they finalize them this fall. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed lowering these obligations, which would undermine growth of the American-grown and produced biofuel industry.
Read the news release here.
October 17, 2017, 2017 – NFU Deeply Disappointed By USDA Decision to Terminate Farmer Fair Practices Rules
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it would be terminating the Farmer Fair Practices Rule on Competitive Injury, a rule that would have provided the most basic of protections to American family farmers and ranchers as they endure increasingly concentrated markets and unfair treatment from multinational meatpackers.
Read the news release here.
October 5, 2017, 2017 – NFU President Offers Trump Administration a Pathway to Expanded Use of Ethanol
As American family farmers struggle amidst a global glut of grain supplies and a severely depressed U.S. farm economy, the Trump Administration has a significant opportunity to provide meaningful relief that benefits not only farmers, but also rural communities, consumers and the environment.
Read the news release here.
October 3, 2017, 2017 – NFU, Biofuels Industry Call on Trump Administration to Honor Commitment to RFS and Rural America
Following a recent set of proposals by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to weaken the nation’s premier renewable fuels law, the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), National Farmers Union and 10 prominent biofuel organizations are calling on the administration to honor its commitment to the law, the biofuels industry and to rural America.
Read the news release here.
September 27, 2017 – New EPA Proposal Undermines RFS, Administration’s Promises to Rural America
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) yesterday announced new, lower proposed obligations for renewable fuel usage under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), the nation’s preeminent policy for encouraging the production and development of American grown and produced transportation fuels. The agency’s proposal would reduce obligations in 2018 for total renewable fuel volumes, biomass-based diesel, and advanced biofuel if finalized.
Read the news release here.
September 26, 2017 – NFU Applauds No Vote on Graham-Cassidy
U.S. Senate leadership today announced the body would not vote on the Graham-Cassidy health care bill. The proposal stood to worsen access to affordable and quality health care for American family farmers and ranchers, according to National Farmers Union (NFU).
Read the news release here.
September 21, 2017 – NFU Urges Senate to Vote No on Graham-Cassidy Health Care Plan
The latest plan put forth by U.S. Senate leadership to overhaul the nation’s health care system stands to worsen access to affordable and quality health care for American family farmers and ranchers, according to the nation’s second largest general farm organization. In a letter sent to members of the Senate today, National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson urged legislators to vote against the plan, known as Graham-Cassidy, and stated NFU’s intent to score the vote. NFU continues to call on Congress to begin a transparent, bipartisan approach to improving the current system.
Read the news release here.
September 12, 2017 – NFU Honors 33 Congressional Champions of Agriculture with Golden Triangle Award
National Farmers Union (NFU) proudly recognized 33 outstanding U.S. Senators and Representatives who have demonstrated leadership and support at the federal policymaking level for family farmers, ranchers and their rural communities. The Golden Triangle Award, the family farm organization’s highest legislative honor, was presented to recipients at an awards reception tonight, during NFU’s Fall Legislative Fly-In.
Read the news release here.
September 11, 2017 – More Than 300 Farmers Union Members ‘Fly-In’ to Washington to Lobby Congress, the Administration
Today, 320 Farmers Union members gathered in the nation’s capital for National Farmers Union’s (NFU) Fall Legislative Fly-In. The annual event allows Farmers Union members from across the country to meet directly with lawmakers, USDA leaders and other administration officials to discuss issues important to family farmers and ranchers.
Read the news release here.
September 8, 2017 – NFU Beginning Farmer Institute Holds First Learning Session in Washington, D.C.
National Farmers Union’s (NFU) Beginning Farmer Institute (BFI) convened today in Washington, D.C., for the first of three learning sessions that will take place during the next year. Twenty beginning farmers, representing demographical, geographical and production diversity in agriculture, traveled to the nation’s capital for the two-day session.
Read the news release here.
August 31, 2017 – NFU to EPA: Stand With Farmers and Consumers on RFS
For the past decade, the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) has been a boon to American-grown renewable energy development, thereby expanding markets for family farmers, creating jobs in rural communities, shoring up American energy independence, and cleaning up the environment. So when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues new renewable fuel volume obligations this November, they must continue to build on the success of the RFS, says National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson. In public comments filed to the EPA today, Johnson urged the agency to issue RFS volume obligations that expand markets for higher blends of ethanol and advanced biofuels.
Read the news release here.
July 25, 2017 – NFU President Urges Senate Agriculture Committee to Strengthen Farm Safety Net
Family farmers and ranchers are enduring a severely depressed farm economy, with projections pointing to a prolonged period of depressed commodity prices. To ensure the growth and success of family farm agriculture, Congress must strengthen the overall farm safety net, National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson told the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture today.
Read the news release here.
July 24, 2017 – NFU Urges No Vote on Senate ACA Repeal
In advance of an imminent vote in the U.S. Senate on legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the nation’s second largest general farm organization is urging members of the Senate to vote against the failed legislation.
Read the news release here.
July 6, 2017 – NFU Celebrates Youth Leadership and Cooperative Education at 81st Annual All-States Leadership Camp
Farmers Union youth members from across the country gathered in Bailey, Colorado, for the 81st annual National Farmers Union (NFU) All-States Leadership Camp. Hosted each June at the NFU Education Center, All-States Camp encourages youth to explore their leadership potential, discuss issues important to their generation, and identify ways to affect positive change in their communities.
Read the news release here.
July 5, 2017 – NFU Statement on EPA’s RFS Volume Targets
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released the Trump Administration’s first proposed set of volume obligations for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The proposal maintains the conventional biofuel amount at 15 billion gallons, yet lowers obligations for advanced biofuels, including biodiesel, and ultimately falls nearly 7 billion gallons short of the levels prescribed by Congress in the RFS statute.
Read the news release here.
June 15, 2017 – NFU Condemns Trump Administration Approval of Dow-DuPont
Perpetuating the disturbing consolidation trend in the agriculture sector, the U.S. Department of Justice today approved the $142 billion merger of Dow Chemical Co. and DuPont Co. The deal will create the largest agriculture biotechnology and seed firm in the United States.
Read the news release here.
June 8, 2017 – NFU Announces Twenty Participants for 2017-18 Beginning Farmers Institute
National Farmers Union (NFU) has announced twenty beginning farmers and ranchers from across the United States to take part in the 2017-2018 Beginning Farmers Institute (BFI) program. The Institute empowers the success of America’s next generation of farmers by providing mentorship, technical training and leadership development to its participants.
Read the news release here.
June 1, 2017 – U.S. Withdrawal from Paris Accord Shirks Science, Neglects Devastating Impacts to Food System, Family Farms, and Future Generations
President Donald Trump announced today that the U.S. will withdraw from the historic Paris Agreement, an accord among 192 nations to combat the potentially devastating impacts of climate change.
Read the news release here.
May 23, 2017 – President Trump’s Budget is an Assault on the Farm Safety Net and Rural Communities, NFU Says
President Donald J. Trump issued a detailed fiscal year 2018 federal budget proposal today, recommending drastic cuts to agricultural and rural related agencies and programs. The proposal would cut Farm Bill programs by nearly $230 billion and slash the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) annual budget by 21 percent.
In response to the proposal, National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson issued the following audio statement.
Read the news release here.
May 18, 2017 – Reopening of NAFTA Provides Trump Administration With Chance to Right the U.S. Trade Agenda
Initiating an official renegotiation process of past, failed trade deals, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer today formally notified Congress of the Trump Administration’s intentions to reopen the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The renegotiation provides the administration with a unique opportunity to reset the U.S. trade agenda, according to National Farmers Union.
Read the news release here.
May 16, 2017 – Farmers Union Confronts the Farm Crisis
The national farm economy is deteriorating, forcing many family farmers and ranchers to make tough financial decisions that will impact their families, communities, and the entire country. In order to provide farmers with the resources and support needed to endure these tough economic conditions, National Farmers Union (NFU) and Farmers Union state divisions have compiled resources, organized listening sessions, and initiated a national campaign to raise awareness for the current farm crisis.
Read the news release here.
May 15, 2017 – NFU, Coalition of Rural Organizations Oppose Elimination of Rural Development Mission Area and Under Secretary
Highlighting the important work carried out by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, National Farmers Union (NFU) and a diverse coalition of rural organizations are calling on Congress to prevent any attempt to eliminate the Rural Development Mission Area (RD) and the Office of the Under Secretary for Rural Development.
Read the news release here.
May 3, 2017 – New AHCA Even Worse for Family Farmers and Rural Americans
As U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan attempts to secure votes in support of the American Health Care Act (AHCA), National Farmers Union (NFU) is reiterating its opposition to the bill. The legislation has worsened since being introduced in late March, now risking even less protection for family farmers and rural Americans, especially those with preexisting conditions.
Read the news release here.
May 1, 2017 – NFU Calls on FTC to Oppose ChemChina Acquisition of Syngenta
Continuing a long tradition of advocating for competitive marketplaces for family farmers and ranchers, National Farmers Union (NFU) urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to oppose the proposed China National Chemical Corp’s (ChemChina) acquisition of Syngenta AG.
Read the news release here.
April 24, 2017 – NFU Statement on Sonny Perdue’s Confirmation as Agriculture Secretary
The U.S. Senate confirmed former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.
Read the news release here.
April 22, 2017 – Farmers Union Marches for Science
Marching in cities across the United States, members of National Farmers Union (NFU) joined the world’s first-ever March for Science today, emphasizing the vital role that science should play in everyday life and in federal policymaking.
Read the news release here.
April 12, 2017 – NFU Urges Trump Administration to Stay in Paris Agreement
As President Donald Trump weighs the merits of keeping the United States in the Paris Agreement, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging the administration to maintain U.S. commitments to global leadership on climate change. The Paris Agreement is vital to enhancing the climate resiliency of family farm operations and rural communities, and it allows family farmers and ranchers to join carbon sequestration efforts that stimulate economic growth in rural America.
Read the news release here.
March 23, 2017 – NFU Urges Swift Confirmation of Perdue as Ag Secretary
Former Georgia governor Sonny Perdue appeared before the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee today for the confirmation hearing on his nomination to be U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.
Read the news release here.
March 23, 2017 – NFU Public Comments Strongly Endorse Fair Practice Rules
On behalf of nearly 200,000 family farm and ranch members, National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson submitted public comments to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) yesterday, advocating for the agency to finalize the Farmer Fair Practices Rules. The rules would provide family farmers and ranchers with protections against anti-competitive and abusive practices.
Read the news release here.
March 22, 2017 – NFU Urges Administration to Keep COOL as a Priority for Trade Agenda
The Trump Administration this week released a list of 24 trade practices, including Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL), that trade negotiators should prioritize in future negotiations. National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging the administration to keep COOL on the list, and to ensure a reinstatement of COOL would be allowable under any renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Read the news release here.
March 21, 2017 – NFU Urges Congress to Vote Against AHCA
Citing the need for family farmers and ranchers to have affordable access to quality health coverage, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging Congress to vote against the American Health Care Act (AHCA). The bill is scheduled to be voted on by the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday.
Read the news release here.
March 21, 2017 – Farmer Fair Practices Rules Needed to Address Lack of Competition in Livestock and Poultry Sectors, NFU Testimony States
Highlighting the iniquities of today’s extremely consolidated livestock and poultry sectors, National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson submitted testimony today to the U.S House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Livestock and Foreign Agriculture.
Read the news release here.
March 21, 2017 – NFU Salutes Family Farmers, Ranchers on National Ag Day
Highlighting the important roles family farmers and ranchers play in ensuring food security, National Farmers Union (NFU) joined the agriculture community today in celebrating National Ag Day.
Read the news release here.
March 16, 2017 – President’s Budget Shuns Rural America with Deep Cuts to Agriculture, Programs Serving Rural America
President Donald J. Trump issued his fiscal year 2018 federal budget blueprint today, calling for a drastic reduction in spending on agriculture and rural related agencies and programs.
Read the news release here.
March 5-8, 2017 – NFU Convention Audio
NFU Kicks Off 115th Anniversary Convention
Read the news release here.
NFU Honors Mike Dain for Excellence in Agriculture Communications
Read the news release here.
Three Individuals Awarded NFU’s Highest Honor
Read the news release here.
NFU Recognizes Members, Local Organizations and State Chapters for Excellence in Membership and Leadership
Read the news release here.
NFU Concludes 115th Anniversary Convention with Adoption of Policy, Special Orders of Business
Read the news release here.
March 4, 2017 – NFU Women’s Conference Provides Management, Leadership Skills
Building on a strong history of providing women in agriculture with important leadership and risk management skills, National Farmers Union (NFU) hosted its 2017 Women’s Conference in San Diego, California.
Read the news release here.
February 23, 2017 – Trump Administration Building Positive Record on Renewable Fuels
Stressing the need for certainty around the administration’s support for the renewable fuels industry, National Farmers Union (NFU) recognizes the Trump Administration’s growing positive record in support of renewable fuels as a means to spur economic growth, provide good-paying jobs, and benefit American family farmers, ranchers, and rural economies.
Read the news release here.
February 7, 2017 – NFU President Roger Johnson Statement on Massive 2016 Trade Deficit
The U.S. Commerce Department announced today that the U.S. trade deficit grew to $502 billion in 2016, marking its highest level in four years. NFU President Roger Johnson pointing to the need to reset the nation’s trade agenda and address the massive trade deficit.
Read the news release here.
February 6, 2017 – NFU President Roger Johnson Statement on Farmer Fair Practices Rules Delay
Further delaying a much-anticipated and necessary set of protections for family farmers and ranchers, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today pushed back the effective date and comment periods for the three Farmer Fair Practices Rules.
Read the news release here.
January 18, 2017 – NFU President Roger Johnson Statement on Sonny Perdue Selection as Agriculture Secretary
President-elect Donald Trump has selected former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue to be the U.S. Agriculture Secretary in the incoming Trump administration.
Read the news release here.
January 12, 2017 – NFU President Roger Johnson on the USDA Corn Ethanol Report
Demonstrating the environmental benefits brought about by the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), a report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) concludes that corn ethanol provides a considerable reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to conventional gasoline.
Read the news release here.
December 16, 2016 – NFU President Roger Johnson on the NFU Board of Directors Dairy Resolution
As U.S. dairy producers continue to struggle with multi-year price lows and an inadequate safety net, National Farmers Union (NFU) is calling on Congress to provide meaningful support for the nation’s dairy sector.
Read the news release here.
December 14, 2016 – NFU President Roger Johnson on the Farmer Fair Practices Rules
NFU says the new Farmer Fair Practices Rules are a ‘step in the right direction’ for fair market practices in the highly consolidated livestock and poultry industries.
Read the news release here.
November 15, 2016 – NFU Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Communications Rob Larew on the new “American Food for American Schools” Legislation
Recognizing the need to improve sourcing of American-grown food products by U.S. schools, National Farmers Union (NFU) applauded the introduction of the “American Food for American Schools Act of 2016.”
Read the news release here.
November 7, 2016 – NFU President Roger Johnson on the Second Session of the NFU Beginning Farmer Institute
NFU submitted comments to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) urging that a proposed rule change for the taxable value of assets be amended to consider family farmers and ranchers.
Read the release here.
November 3, 2016 – NFU President Roger Johnson on the IRS Proposed Rule Change to Estate Tax
NFU submitted comments to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) urging that a proposed rule change for the taxable value of assets be amended to consider family farmers and ranchers.
Read the release here.
July 27, 2016 – NFU Membership Director Tom Bryant on the Farmer’s Share
Part of educating consumers about how and where their food is produced is helping them to understand the food industry supply chain. NFU Director of Membership Tom Bryant talks about the small share farmers and ranchers receive from every food dollar spent, on average about 17.4-cents, while the rest of the food supply chain accounts for about 80 percent of the cost.
April 19, 2016 – Barbara Patterson on House Appropriations GIPSA Rider
NFU Government Relations Representative Barbara Patterson talks about NFU’s objection to the House Appropriations Committee GIPSA rider that proactively limits farmers’ basic rights and protections.
October 6, 2015 – Roger Johnson on the TPP, Currency Manipulation
NFU President Roger Johnson talks about NFU’s objection to the Trans-Pacific Partnership.