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Moran says “hard to get a handle on” federal cuts

A U.S. Senator from Kansas says it’s hard to get a handle on changes happening in the federal workforce. Jerry Moran tells Brownfield the situation changes daily. “We need to see the method by which the decisions are being made and what’s the long-term... Read More.

Farmer funding freeze litigation now in federal court

Nearly 20 nonprofit agricultural organizations and cities have joined in a lawsuit to restore federal funding for farmers. Pasa Sustainable Agriculture’s Hannah Smith-Brubaker tells Brownfield funding approved by Congress and allocated through federal contracts should be binding. “It’s not right, it’s unfair,” she says.... Read More.

Officials hear impacts of federal funding freeze

The Trump administration’s freezing and cutting of federal funds is having devastating impacts across the country. “Never before have I called for mass activism, but this is the moment.” Illinois Governor JB Pritzker joined Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski and others to hear directly from those... Read More.

Federal impoundment lawsuits could reshape ag

The director of the National Agricultural Law Center says several lawsuits around the U.S. President’s ability to impound Congressionally approved funds could reshape agriculture. Harrison Pittman says modern agriculture relies on a close relationship with the federal government. “In 2024, more than 40% of... Read More.

Could a federal E15 solution become a reality this year?

There’s optimism among some ethanol supporters that a permanent fix for year-round E15 could become a reality this year. “I think we’re as close as we’ve ever been to getting this across the finish line,” said farmer Kelly Nieuwenhuis from northwest Iowa. Nieuwenhuis is... Read More.

Federal funding freeze halts Illinois EATS program

The deputy director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) says the Trump administration’s federal funding freeze has halted the Illinois EATS program. Kristi Jones tells Brownfield it was part of the USDA funded Local Food Purchase Assistance Program. “Those reimbursement dollars are how... Read More.

Federal uncertainties weighing on farm families

Farmers are concerned about uncertainties at the federal level. Minnesota Department of Agriculture Deputy Commissioner Andrea Vaubel says recent layoffs at USDA and questions about the farm bill and tax policies are causing stress on the farm. “There’s question around just the availability of... Read More.

Federal milk marketing order changes will affect profitability

An economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) says recently approved changes to the federal milk marketing orders will affect dairy producers’ profitability.        Danny Munch says the newly updated system that regulates minimum payments to dairy producers will be a win for some,... Read More.

House Ag Committee member concerned for USDA, federal officials

A U.S. House Ag Committee member says he’s concerned about how the rapid removal of federal employees could affect food security and availability. Michigan Democrat Shri Thanedar tells Brownfield, “USDA may lose some very talented, experienced workers, staff, inspectors, who really understand the process... Read More.