Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. 

Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. 

The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. 

As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. 

The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. 

Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones.

Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones.- NAFB

Farmer to Farmer Education Act introduced in senate

The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. 

The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. 

GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” 

The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. 

As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.

The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.- NAFB

Fuel prices surge as heat hits refinery output

A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20.

USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons.

Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons.

Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.

A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20.USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons.Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons.Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.-NAFB

Export Sales of Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat Rise

The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act.

The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states.

The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another.

The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace.

The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act.The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states.The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another.The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace.-NAFB

Farmers, Ranchers Storm Capitol Hill Opposing EATS Act

Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming.

The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies.

“It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.”

Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming.The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies.“It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.”-NAFB

Legislation Would Target Farm Payments Where Needed Most

Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. 

The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. 

The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. 

The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. 

Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.

Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.- NAFB

House bill would help farmers and ranchers combat drought

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. 

The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. 

A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. 

They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. 

“Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. &nbsp;

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. “Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. &nbsp;- NAFB

New Jersey signs Gestation Crate Legislation

The National Corn Growers Association released a video series featuring corn growers from around the nation telling their stories about how the farm bill affects each of their operations. 

The videos were unveiled at Corn Congress, which was recently held in Washington, D.C. 

The series features four farmers from Pennsylvania, Texas, Kansas, and Ohio. 

These NCGA members shared the importance of crop insurance, trade, farm safety net programs, and USDA’s conservation programming. Brooke Appleton, NCGA vice president of public policy, says the project’s goal is to help directly communicate with policymakers and their staff about the importance of the farm bill to corn growers and their families. 

“Nearly half of all House members weren’t around during the 2018 Farm Bill debate,” Appleton says. “We’ve known for some time that new member education would be key to our comprehensive advocacy efforts on the farm bill.” Check out the videos at ncga.com.

The National Corn Growers Association released a video series featuring corn growers from around the nation telling their stories about how the farm bill affects each of their operations. The videos were unveiled at Corn Congress, which was recently held in Washington, D.C. The series features four farmers from Pennsylvania, Texas, Kansas, and Ohio. These NCGA members shared the importance of crop insurance, trade, farm safety net programs, and USDA’s conservation programming. Brooke Appleton, NCGA vice president of public policy, says the project’s goal is to help directly communicate with policymakers and their staff about the importance of the farm bill to corn growers and their families. “Nearly half of all House members weren’t around during the 2018 Farm Bill debate,” Appleton says. “We’ve known for some time that new member education would be key to our comprehensive advocacy efforts on the farm bill.” Check out the videos at ncga.com.- NAFB

NCGA videos tell farm bill stories

Global shocks over the past few years have created an unprecedented “polycrisis” that has disproportionately hurt small-scale farmers and people living in food-deficit countries. 

The data comes from a new report commissioned by Farm Journal Foundation. 

The COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change have created far-reaching impacts across global food systems, affecting food, fertilizer, feed, fuel, and financing available to producers. 

The resulting polycrisis has left humanity vulnerable to future “black swan” moments that could have even more severe and far-reaching consequences for global food supplies. 

One of the researchers says, “Already, millions of smallholder farmers and their families were teetering on the edge of survival due to long-term structural challenges, and this polycrisis has pushed countless into disaster.” 

To alleviate global food insecurity, the report says the U.S. should invest more in international agricultural research and innovation. More research is needed across climate change adaptation and mitigation, soil health and nutrient management, crop diversity and nutrition, access to markets and finance, supply chain infrastructure, and local capacity building.

Global shocks over the past few years have created an unprecedented “polycrisis” that has disproportionately hurt small-scale farmers and people living in food-deficit countries. The data comes from a new report commissioned by Farm Journal Foundation. The COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change have created far-reaching impacts across global food systems, affecting food, fertilizer, feed, fuel, and financing available to producers. The resulting polycrisis has left humanity vulnerable to future “black swan” moments that could have even more severe and far-reaching consequences for global food supplies. One of the researchers says, “Already, millions of smallholder farmers and their families were teetering on the edge of survival due to long-term structural challenges, and this polycrisis has pushed countless into disaster.” To alleviate global food insecurity, the report says the U.S. should invest more in international agricultural research and innovation. More research is needed across climate change adaptation and mitigation, soil health and nutrient management, crop diversity and nutrition, access to markets and finance, supply chain infrastructure, and local capacity building.- NAFB

Global shocks disproportionately hurt farmers

Growth Energy recently filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in The San Antonio Refinery, LLC, v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

The case pertains to a group of refineries seeking to avoid complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. 

The petitioning refineries allege that the EPA's "Alternative RIN Retirement Schedule for Small Refineries"--an adjustment made to allow refineries to meet their RFS obligations over an extended period of time--did not go far enough and should have allowed the refineries not to comply with the RFS at all. 

Growth Energy's amicus brief reiterates the fact that the oil industry continues to look for ways to avoid complying with the RFS. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "The oil industry should stop playing the victim and get on board with the most successful climate policy enacted to date."

Growth Energy recently filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in The San Antonio Refinery, LLC, v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The case pertains to a group of refineries seeking to avoid complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. The petitioning refineries allege that the EPA's "Alternative RIN Retirement Schedule for Small Refineries"--an adjustment made to allow refineries to meet their RFS obligations over an extended period of time--did not go far enough and should have allowed the refineries not to comply with the RFS at all. Growth Energy's amicus brief reiterates the fact that the oil industry continues to look for ways to avoid complying with the RFS. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "The oil industry should stop playing the victim and get on board with the most successful climate policy enacted to date."- NAFB

Growth Energy sides with EPA in lawsuit

Agriculture checkoff groups jointly announced opposition to legislation they say attacks commodity checkoff programs. 

An Amendment by Representative Victoria Sparts, a Republican from Indiana, would prohibit USDA from using any tax dollars to administer commodity Checkoff programs. 

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Soybean Association, National Pork Producers Council, and National Milk Producers Federation, along with the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, jointly voiced opposition to the effort. 

NCBA Policy Division Vice Chair Tim Schwab, an Indiana cattle producer, says, "Representative Spartz's amendment targets programs like the Beef Checkoff and is a direct attack on America's farmers and ranchers." The groups say the legislation is "frivolous" as "no taxpayer dollars are being used to administer Checkoff programs." 

USDA oversees 22 commodity Checkoff programs that boost demand for products like beef, eggs, lamb, cotton, blueberries, honey, mangos, peanuts, mushrooms, watermelons, dairy, cotton, popcorn, and even Christmas trees. Farmers and ranchers invest in these programs, and that funding supports agricultural research and promotional efforts.

Agriculture checkoff groups jointly announced opposition to legislation they say attacks commodity checkoff programs. An Amendment by Representative Victoria Sparts, a Republican from Indiana, would prohibit USDA from using any tax dollars to administer commodity Checkoff programs. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Soybean Association, National Pork Producers Council, and National Milk Producers Federation, along with the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, jointly voiced opposition to the effort. NCBA Policy Division Vice Chair Tim Schwab, an Indiana cattle producer, says, "Representative Spartz's amendment targets programs like the Beef Checkoff and is a direct attack on America's farmers and ranchers." The groups say the legislation is "frivolous" as "no taxpayer dollars are being used to administer Checkoff programs." USDA oversees 22 commodity Checkoff programs that boost demand for products like beef, eggs, lamb, cotton, blueberries, honey, mangos, peanuts, mushrooms, watermelons, dairy, cotton, popcorn, and even Christmas trees. Farmers and ranchers invest in these programs, and that funding supports agricultural research and promotional efforts.- NAFB

Ag groups reject Anti-checkoff Legislation

By ASHLEY MURRAY <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. senators approved bipartisan amendments to the annual defense policy bill Tuesday night that would prohibit China, Iran, North Korea and Russia from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/03/17/limits-on-foreign-ownership-of-u-s-farmland-gain-support-in-congress-despite-skepticism/">purchasing</a>&nbsp;U.S. farmland and screen American investment in high-tech ventures on foreign adversary soil.

By a 91-7 vote, the lawmakers approved a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/amendment/118th-congress/senate-amendment/813/text?s=2&amp;r=9&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22Mike%22%2C%22rounds%22%5D%7D">measure</a>&nbsp;that would require review of — and direct the president to halt or waive — agricultural land transactions by the four nations.

The amendment would empower the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to evaluate the land deals. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/international/the-committee-on-foreign-investment-in-the-united-states-cfius">committee</a>&nbsp;already reviews other inbound investment transactions,

Of the 40 million acres of U.S. forest and farmland owned by foreign investors at the end of 2021, China accounted for 383,935 acres, or less than 1%, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/EPAS/PDF/2021_afida_annual_report_through_12_31_2021.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;on foreign land holdings.

The 2022 purchase of 300 acres by a Chinese-owned corn processing company near an Air Force base in North Dakota triggered concern among some lawmakers, as did the discovery in February of a Chinese surveillance&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/03/chinese-surveillance-balloon-now-drifting-across-the-middle-of-the-u-s-pentagon-confirms/">balloon</a>&nbsp;hovering over Montana, home to many U.S. nuclear missiles.

The amendment was co-sponsored by Republican Sens. Mike Rounds of South Dakota, Steve Daines of Montana, John Kennedy of Louisiana, Joni Ernst of Iowa, Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, Ted Cruz of Texas, Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven of North Dakota, Katie Britt of Alabama, and Democratic Sens. Jon Tester of Montana and Sherrod Brown of Ohio.

“In recent years, our country has seen firsthand attempts by our near peer competitors to acquire land adjacent to our military bases,” Rounds said on the Senate floor Tuesday.&nbsp; “In 2020, a Chinese-led company planned to build a wind energy farm project near Del Rio, Texas, only miles away from Laughlin Air Force base, where U.S. pilots are trained.”

State lawmakers blocked the wind farm project in 2021, but recently&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-chinese-wind-farm-green-energy-6cd629303e8870e1942c170ebc52d7bc">gave</a>&nbsp;it a green light after a company from Spain backed it instead.

As of 2021, Canadian investors held the largest amount of forest and farmland, followed by the Netherlands, Italy, United Kingdom and Germany, according to the USDA.

Senators also voted 91-6 on an amendment to screen investment by U.S. companies in China, Iran, North Korea and Russia in high-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors, satellite communications and quantum computing.

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania and GOP Sen. John Cornyn of Texas have been pushing legislation since 2021 that would monitor the offshoring of supply chains in industries and locations with national security implications.

The annual defense bill “tackles the toughest national security issues facing our nation,” Casey said on the Senate floor Tuesday. “And the technological competition with the People’s Republic of China is certainly at the top of that list.”

“Right now we’re in competition with a communist government that doesn’t play by the rules,” he continued in remarks before the vote. “The Chinese government employs economic espionage and it exploits the United States’ open research and innovation to build up its own capabilities.”

U.S. outbound investment totaled $6.58 trillion at the end of 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bea.gov/news/2023/direct-investment-country-and-industry-2022">according to</a>&nbsp;the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Most was concentrated in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland and Canada. Just over $1 trillion landed in Latin America and the Western Hemisphere, while roughly $951 million went to Asia and the Pacific. The Middle East and Africa were near the bottom of the list with just over $80 million and $46 million respectively.

The Casey-Cornyn amendment would require U.S. corporations and other entities to notify the secretary of the Treasury prior to a deal.

Unlike foreign investment that comes into the U.S., no federal mechanism screens the dollars American companies are investing outside the nation.

The National Defense Authorization Act is the annual defense policy bill that continues defense policies, nuclear weapons programs and authorizes defense-related spending.

Lawmakers often use the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF10516">massive bill</a>&nbsp;as a vehicle for various policy matters because Congress consistently enacts the legislation each year. After the Senate bill is passed, it will go to a conference committee with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/07/14/defense-bill-that-targets-abortion-access-trans-health-racial-equity-passes-u-s-house/">a House-passed bill</a>&nbsp;that targets abortion access, transgender health and racial equity.

The legislation does not appropriate money for the Department of Defense and other relevant federal agencies. Rather, the bill authorizes how the funds should be spent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605548577424.jpeg" alt="Photo USDA" />
 <figcaption>Photo USDA</figcaption>
 </figure>By ASHLEY MURRAY <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. senators approved bipartisan amendments to the annual defense policy bill Tuesday night that would prohibit China, Iran, North Korea and Russia from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/03/17/limits-on-foreign-ownership-of-u-s-farmland-gain-support-in-congress-despite-skepticism/">purchasing</a>&nbsp;U.S. farmland and screen American investment in high-tech ventures on foreign adversary soil.By a 91-7 vote, the lawmakers approved a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.congress.gov/amendment/118th-congress/senate-amendment/813/text?s=2&amp;r=9&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22Mike%22%2C%22rounds%22%5D%7D">measure</a>&nbsp;that would require review of — and direct the president to halt or waive — agricultural land transactions by the four nations.The amendment would empower the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to evaluate the land deals. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/international/the-committee-on-foreign-investment-in-the-united-states-cfius">committee</a>&nbsp;already reviews other inbound investment transactions,Of the 40 million acres of U.S. forest and farmland owned by foreign investors at the end of 2021, China accounted for 383,935 acres, or less than 1%, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/EPAS/PDF/2021_afida_annual_report_through_12_31_2021.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;on foreign land holdings.The 2022 purchase of 300 acres by a Chinese-owned corn processing company near an Air Force base in North Dakota triggered concern among some lawmakers, as did the discovery in February of a Chinese surveillance&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/03/chinese-surveillance-balloon-now-drifting-across-the-middle-of-the-u-s-pentagon-confirms/">balloon</a>&nbsp;hovering over Montana, home to many U.S. nuclear missiles.The amendment was co-sponsored by Republican Sens. Mike Rounds of South Dakota, Steve Daines of Montana, John Kennedy of Louisiana, Joni Ernst of Iowa, Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, Ted Cruz of Texas, Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven of North Dakota, Katie Britt of Alabama, and Democratic Sens. Jon Tester of Montana and Sherrod Brown of Ohio.“In recent years, our country has seen firsthand attempts by our near peer competitors to acquire land adjacent to our military bases,” Rounds said on the Senate floor Tuesday.&nbsp; “In 2020, a Chinese-led company planned to build a wind energy farm project near Del Rio, Texas, only miles away from Laughlin Air Force base, where U.S. pilots are trained.”State lawmakers blocked the wind farm project in 2021, but recently&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-chinese-wind-farm-green-energy-6cd629303e8870e1942c170ebc52d7bc">gave</a>&nbsp;it a green light after a company from Spain backed it instead.As of 2021, Canadian investors held the largest amount of forest and farmland, followed by the Netherlands, Italy, United Kingdom and Germany, according to the USDA.<h2>Investment abroad</h2>Senators also voted 91-6 on an amendment to screen investment by U.S. companies in China, Iran, North Korea and Russia in high-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence, advanced semiconductors, satellite communications and quantum computing.Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania and GOP Sen. John Cornyn of Texas have been pushing legislation since 2021 that would monitor the offshoring of supply chains in industries and locations with national security implications.The annual defense bill “tackles the toughest national security issues facing our nation,” Casey said on the Senate floor Tuesday. “And the technological competition with the People’s Republic of China is certainly at the top of that list.”“Right now we’re in competition with a communist government that doesn’t play by the rules,” he continued in remarks before the vote. “The Chinese government employs economic espionage and it exploits the United States’ open research and innovation to build up its own capabilities.”U.S. outbound investment totaled $6.58 trillion at the end of 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bea.gov/news/2023/direct-investment-country-and-industry-2022">according to</a>&nbsp;the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.Most was concentrated in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland and Canada. Just over $1 trillion landed in Latin America and the Western Hemisphere, while roughly $951 million went to Asia and the Pacific. The Middle East and Africa were near the bottom of the list with just over $80 million and $46 million respectively.The Casey-Cornyn amendment would require U.S. corporations and other entities to notify the secretary of the Treasury prior to a deal.Unlike foreign investment that comes into the U.S., no federal mechanism screens the dollars American companies are investing outside the nation.<h2>Defense bill</h2>The National Defense Authorization Act is the annual defense policy bill that continues defense policies, nuclear weapons programs and authorizes defense-related spending.Lawmakers often use the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF10516">massive bill</a>&nbsp;as a vehicle for various policy matters because Congress consistently enacts the legislation each year. After the Senate bill is passed, it will go to a conference committee with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/07/14/defense-bill-that-targets-abortion-access-trans-health-racial-equity-passes-u-s-house/">a House-passed bill</a>&nbsp;that targets abortion access, transgender health and racial equity.The legislation does not appropriate money for the Department of Defense and other relevant federal agencies. Rather, the bill authorizes how the funds should be spent.The 2022 NDAA authorized $768.2 billion.

U.S. Senate votes to curb farmland purchases by China, Iran, North Korea, Russia

United States egg production totaled 9.08 billion during June 2023, up four percent from the same time last year. 

USDA’s monthly Chicken and Eggs report shows production included 7.78 billion table eggs, and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. 

The average number of layers during June 2023 totaled 387 million, up five percent from last year. 

June egg production per 100 layers was 2,348 eggs, down one percent from June 2022. Total layers in the United States on July 1, 2023, were 386 million, up five percent from last year. 

The 386 million layers consisted of 317 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 65.0 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.69 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on July 1, 2023, averaged 78.5 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from July 1, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

United States egg production totaled 9.08 billion during June 2023, up four percent from the same time last year. USDA’s monthly Chicken and Eggs report shows production included 7.78 billion table eggs, and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during June 2023 totaled 387 million, up five percent from last year. June egg production per 100 layers was 2,348 eggs, down one percent from June 2022. Total layers in the United States on July 1, 2023, were 386 million, up five percent from last year. The 386 million layers consisted of 317 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 65.0 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.69 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on July 1, 2023, averaged 78.5 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from July 1, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;- NAFB

U.S. egg production increased in June

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday unveiled a geospatial product called Crop Sequence Boundaries that offers national-scale visual crop rotation data for the first time. 

Crop Sequence Boundaries, or CSB technology, is a cutting-edge map of agricultural fields that provides crop acreage estimates and historical planting decisions across the contiguous United States. 

The open-source product uses satellite imagery and other public data to allow users to analyze planted U.S. commodities, enhancing agricultural science and research and providing producers an innovative resource to help make farming decisions. 

The new tool was developed by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service and Economic Research Service, two of the department's statistical scientific research agencies. 

CSB incorporates technological advances in satellite imagery and high-performance cloud computing with Google Earth Engine. It is one of several tools that NASS and its partners have developed to support agricultural analyses and make data more accessible and valuable to the public. Access CSB at nass.usda.gov.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday unveiled a geospatial product called Crop Sequence Boundaries that offers national-scale visual crop rotation data for the first time. Crop Sequence Boundaries, or CSB technology, is a cutting-edge map of agricultural fields that provides crop acreage estimates and historical planting decisions across the contiguous United States. The open-source product uses satellite imagery and other public data to allow users to analyze planted U.S. commodities, enhancing agricultural science and research and providing producers an innovative resource to help make farming decisions. The new tool was developed by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service and Economic Research Service, two of the department's statistical scientific research agencies. CSB incorporates technological advances in satellite imagery and high-performance cloud computing with Google Earth Engine. It is one of several tools that NASS and its partners have developed to support agricultural analyses and make data more accessible and valuable to the public. Access CSB at nass.usda.gov.- NAFB

USDA introduces data to show crop rotation patterns

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced Emergency Rural Health Care Grant recipients. 

Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small made the announcement in Charlottesville, Virginia. 

The funds will expand access to health care for more than five million people living in 39 states and Puerto Rico. 

Torres Small says, "USDA's Emergency Rural Health Care Grants are helping strengthen rural America's health care infrastructure to build for the future." 

USDA is awarding $129 million to improve healthcare facilities in rural towns nationwide. These grants will help 172 rural healthcare organizations expand critical services. The investments will help regional partnerships, public bodies, nonprofits and Tribes solve regional rural healthcare challenges. 

For example, in the Midwest, Southern Illinois Hospital Services is partnering with local healthcare organizations to build an in-patient psychiatric unit to address a regional need to expand access to mental healthcare services for people in Southern Illinois. Find a list of grant recipients at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/sites/default/files/usda-rd-nr-emergency-rural-health-care-grants-awards-07252023.pdf">USDA.gov</a>.

The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced Emergency Rural Health Care Grant recipients. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small made the announcement in Charlottesville, Virginia. The funds will expand access to health care for more than five million people living in 39 states and Puerto Rico. Torres Small says, "USDA's Emergency Rural Health Care Grants are helping strengthen rural America's health care infrastructure to build for the future." USDA is awarding $129 million to improve healthcare facilities in rural towns nationwide. These grants will help 172 rural healthcare organizations expand critical services. The investments will help regional partnerships, public bodies, nonprofits and Tribes solve regional rural healthcare challenges. For example, in the Midwest, Southern Illinois Hospital Services is partnering with local healthcare organizations to build an in-patient psychiatric unit to address a regional need to expand access to mental healthcare services for people in Southern Illinois. Find a list of grant recipients at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.usda.gov/sites/default/files/usda-rd-nr-emergency-rural-health-care-grants-awards-07252023.pdf">USDA.gov</a>.- NAFB

USDA announces Emergency Rural Health Care Grants

California accounts for nearly all renewable diesel consumption in the United States, according to data released last week by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. 

California's consumption of renewable diesel was more than eight times the amount produced there in 2021. 

Instead, most of California’s renewable diesel was produced in other states or was imported. California’s renewable diesel consumption grew substantially after its Low Carbon Fuel Standard went into effect in 2011. 

Between 2011 and 2021, consumption grew from one million barrels to 28 million barrels per year, over 18 times its original volume. Six states—Louisiana, North Dakota, California, Wyoming, Washington, and Kansas—accounted for all renewable diesel production in the United States in 2021. 

Many of the plants in the other states have exclusive agreements to send all of the renewable diesel they produce to distributors in California. U.S. renewable diesel production capacity could more than double by 2025, boosting domestic production.

California accounts for nearly all renewable diesel consumption in the United States, according to data released last week by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. California's consumption of renewable diesel was more than eight times the amount produced there in 2021. Instead, most of California’s renewable diesel was produced in other states or was imported. California’s renewable diesel consumption grew substantially after its Low Carbon Fuel Standard went into effect in 2011. Between 2011 and 2021, consumption grew from one million barrels to 28 million barrels per year, over 18 times its original volume. Six states—Louisiana, North Dakota, California, Wyoming, Washington, and Kansas—accounted for all renewable diesel production in the United States in 2021. Many of the plants in the other states have exclusive agreements to send all of the renewable diesel they produce to distributors in California. U.S. renewable diesel production capacity could more than double by 2025, boosting domestic production.- NAFB

California consumes nearly all U.S. renewable diesel

A group of lawmakers last week introduced legislation to exclude reporting of routine emissions from livestock farms to state and local emergency response authorities. 

The National Pork Producers Council supports the legislation. Pork producers and other livestock industries have engaged with federal and state regulators for decades over permitting and reporting of air emissions. 

This engagement has included both the air consent agreements that many producers signed, exempting them from having to file emergency reports to first responders. 

In 2018, Congress permanently exempted livestock farmers from having to report emissions under the Superfund law to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Response Center. At the same time, EPA exempted those same farms from making similar reports to state and local first responders. 

Following litigation, the Biden Administration agreed to re-open that rulemaking to reconsider the exemption from the emergency release reporting rule. 

The new legislation would clarify that the 2018 Farms Act, and EPA’s prior regulations, were correct and that livestock farms should not be required to inundate local fire departments with emission reports.

A group of lawmakers last week introduced legislation to exclude reporting of routine emissions from livestock farms to state and local emergency response authorities. The National Pork Producers Council supports the legislation. Pork producers and other livestock industries have engaged with federal and state regulators for decades over permitting and reporting of air emissions. This engagement has included both the air consent agreements that many producers signed, exempting them from having to file emergency reports to first responders. In 2018, Congress permanently exempted livestock farmers from having to report emissions under the Superfund law to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Response Center. At the same time, EPA exempted those same farms from making similar reports to state and local first responders. Following litigation, the Biden Administration agreed to re-open that rulemaking to reconsider the exemption from the emergency release reporting rule. The new legislation would clarify that the 2018 Farms Act, and EPA’s prior regulations, were correct and that livestock farms should not be required to inundate local fire departments with emission reports.- NAFB

Legislation would exempt farms from emission reporting

The Department of Agriculture announced Monday an investment of more than $33 million to support capacity-building efforts at 1890 Land-grant Universities. 

The investment, administered through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will support 82 research, Extension, and education projects across the nation’s 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as 1890 Land-grant Universities. 

The projects are part of NIFA’s 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program, which is designed to build capacity for teaching, research, and Extension activities. 

Eligible institutions are receiving funding for a range of activities, including curriculum design, materials development, faculty development, student recruitment and retention, and Extension program development support. 

Research investments will strengthen the quality and diversity of the nation’s higher-education workforce, bolster research and knowledge delivery systems, and equip 1890 Land-grant Universities with resources needed to better address emerging challenges and create new opportunities. All 19 eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities will receive funding through the program.

The Department of Agriculture announced Monday an investment of more than $33 million to support capacity-building efforts at 1890 Land-grant Universities. The investment, administered through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will support 82 research, Extension, and education projects across the nation’s 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as 1890 Land-grant Universities. The projects are part of NIFA’s 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program, which is designed to build capacity for teaching, research, and Extension activities. Eligible institutions are receiving funding for a range of activities, including curriculum design, materials development, faculty development, student recruitment and retention, and Extension program development support. Research investments will strengthen the quality and diversity of the nation’s higher-education workforce, bolster research and knowledge delivery systems, and equip 1890 Land-grant Universities with resources needed to better address emerging challenges and create new opportunities. All 19 eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities will receive funding through the program.- NAFB

USDA invests in research, extension and education at 1890 Land-grant Universities

Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase the transparency and oversight of foreign ownership in America’s agricultural industry. 

The “Farmland Security Act of 2023” builds on the “Farmland Security Act of 2022” by ensuring that all foreign investors, including “shell companies,” who buy American agricultural land report their holdings and strengthens the penalties for those who evade the required filing. 

It also invests in research to better understand the impact foreign ownership of American farmland and agricultural production capacity has on our domestic food supply, family farms, and rural communities. 

Current reporting shows that foreign-owned agricultural acreage has increased in recent years. However, the data that’s been collected is incomplete or inaccurate. 

The new legislation will direct USDA to conduct an annual compliance audit to ensure accuracy and provide annual training to state and county-level USDA staff on identifying non-reporting of foreign-owned agricultural land.

Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase the transparency and oversight of foreign ownership in America’s agricultural industry. The “Farmland Security Act of 2023” builds on the “Farmland Security Act of 2022” by ensuring that all foreign investors, including “shell companies,” who buy American agricultural land report their holdings and strengthens the penalties for those who evade the required filing. It also invests in research to better understand the impact foreign ownership of American farmland and agricultural production capacity has on our domestic food supply, family farms, and rural communities. Current reporting shows that foreign-owned agricultural acreage has increased in recent years. However, the data that’s been collected is incomplete or inaccurate. The new legislation will direct USDA to conduct an annual compliance audit to ensure accuracy and provide annual training to state and county-level USDA staff on identifying non-reporting of foreign-owned agricultural land.- NAFB

Senate bill would bring transparency to foreign land purchases

U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power says the U.S. will provide another $250 million in aid to Ukraine’s agricultural producers. 

Feedstuffs says the money will get distributed through AGRI-Ukraine, an initiative that began in 2022 to help support Ukraine’s agricultural exports and to combat global food security issues made worse by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Power says multiple groups are working together to keep Ukraine farming and producing commodities. 

USAID has already been helping Ukraine’s farmers store the grain they can’t sell. It’s also working with private sector partners to provide financing, seed, and fertilizer. 

Power says the additional investments should help Ukraine’s producers to plant new crops even if they can’t sell grain from their previous harvests. 

“These investments that the U.S. and partners are making will not only help Ukraine win the war but also help them to build a much more resilient future,” Power adds. &nbsp;

U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power says the U.S. will provide another $250 million in aid to Ukraine’s agricultural producers. Feedstuffs says the money will get distributed through AGRI-Ukraine, an initiative that began in 2022 to help support Ukraine’s agricultural exports and to combat global food security issues made worse by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Power says multiple groups are working together to keep Ukraine farming and producing commodities. USAID has already been helping Ukraine’s farmers store the grain they can’t sell. It’s also working with private sector partners to provide financing, seed, and fertilizer. Power says the additional investments should help Ukraine’s producers to plant new crops even if they can’t sell grain from their previous harvests. “These investments that the U.S. and partners are making will not only help Ukraine win the war but also help them to build a much more resilient future,” Power adds. &nbsp;- NAFB

U.S. providing $250 million to Ukraine farmers

A select group of nine college students from around the nation completed the Ag Voices of the Future Program July 10-13 while in Washington, D.C. 

The program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association and Valent, U.S.A., gives students an inside look at how agricultural policies are made in the nation’s capital. 

The class was held in conjunction with ASA’s summer board meeting and other soy events. 

“It’s important that young people have an understanding of the significant policy issues that directly impact the productivity and economic well-being of our farms and the soybean industry,” says ASA President Daryl Cates. 

“ASA appreciates Valent’s support of this valuable program that helps to cultivate future voices for agriculture in D.C." The three-day program was busy with multiple activities and networking opportunities. 

Students heard from ASA and Valent’s industry and government affairs representatives and a House member about their current position and past career experience.

A select group of nine college students from around the nation completed the Ag Voices of the Future Program July 10-13 while in Washington, D.C. The program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association and Valent, U.S.A., gives students an inside look at how agricultural policies are made in the nation’s capital. The class was held in conjunction with ASA’s summer board meeting and other soy events. “It’s important that young people have an understanding of the significant policy issues that directly impact the productivity and economic well-being of our farms and the soybean industry,” says ASA President Daryl Cates. “ASA appreciates Valent’s support of this valuable program that helps to cultivate future voices for agriculture in D.C." The three-day program was busy with multiple activities and networking opportunities. Students heard from ASA and Valent’s industry and government affairs representatives and a House member about their current position and past career experience.- NAFB

Students hit Capitol Hill

Minnesota Representative Angie Craig is the winner of the National Corn Growers Association’s 2023 President’s Award. 

She was honored during the organization’s annual Corn Congress summer meeting in Washington, D.C. Tom Haag, NCGA President and a Minnesota corn grower, had high praise for the congresswoman. 

“Whether it’s ensuring that consumers have access to higher levels of ethanol or it’s working to advance corn grower priorities in the farm bill, Craig has been a tireless advocate for growers and is one of our biggest Congressional allies.” 

Craig, Minnesota’s Second District Representative, says, “My district is home to so many of the corn growers who get food on our tables and fuel in our vehicles. I’m honored to represent them.” 

Craig has championed many issues important to corn growers. Earlier this year, she joined a bipartisan group of House members in re-introducing a bill that would allow year-round access to E15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689954138470.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy of NCGA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of NCGA</figcaption>
 </figure>Minnesota Representative Angie Craig is the winner of the National Corn Growers Association’s 2023 President’s Award. She was honored during the organization’s annual Corn Congress summer meeting in Washington, D.C. Tom Haag, NCGA President and a Minnesota corn grower, had high praise for the congresswoman. “Whether it’s ensuring that consumers have access to higher levels of ethanol or it’s working to advance corn grower priorities in the farm bill, Craig has been a tireless advocate for growers and is one of our biggest Congressional allies.” Craig, Minnesota’s Second District Representative, says, “My district is home to so many of the corn growers who get food on our tables and fuel in our vehicles. I’m honored to represent them.” Craig has championed many issues important to corn growers. Earlier this year, she joined a bipartisan group of House members in re-introducing a bill that would allow year-round access to E15.- NAFB

MN Rep wins NCGA President’s Award

The Animal Agriculture Alliance released reports detailing the interconnectedness of the animal rights movement and their tactics targeting animal agriculture. 

“No matter the animal rights extremist group or the tactics used, they all share the same goal of eliminating animal agriculture and taking meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood off grocery store shelves and family tables,” says Abby Kornegay, AAA manager of issues and engagement. 

Almost one-third of all animal rights extremist attacks documented in 2022 targeted farmers and food workers, putting them and the animals in danger. 

Some of their documented actions against animal ag include 95 vandalism incidents, 70 stolen animals, 60 criminal trespasses, ten arson cases, and nine harassment and intimidation incidents. 

“Extremists are getting ever bolder in their efforts against animal agriculture, and direct actions at the farm, processing facility, and retail store continue rising,” Kornegay adds. For information about proactive security measures, go to animalalliance.org.

The Animal Agriculture Alliance released reports detailing the interconnectedness of the animal rights movement and their tactics targeting animal agriculture. “No matter the animal rights extremist group or the tactics used, they all share the same goal of eliminating animal agriculture and taking meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood off grocery store shelves and family tables,” says Abby Kornegay, AAA manager of issues and engagement. Almost one-third of all animal rights extremist attacks documented in 2022 targeted farmers and food workers, putting them and the animals in danger. Some of their documented actions against animal ag include 95 vandalism incidents, 70 stolen animals, 60 criminal trespasses, ten arson cases, and nine harassment and intimidation incidents. “Extremists are getting ever bolder in their efforts against animal agriculture, and direct actions at the farm, processing facility, and retail store continue rising,” Kornegay adds. For information about proactive security measures, go to animalalliance.org.- NAFB

Animal Ag Alliance releases extremism report

The Investing in Rural America Act was introduced in the House of Representatives, and the Farm Credit Council reacted positively. 

“We thank those who introduced the legislation for their commitment to rural communities,” says FCC President and CEO Todd Van Hoose. 

“This legislation will spur the development of critical facilities in rural communities, such as hospitals, childcare centers, schools, and more.” 

He also says the bill will facilitate partnerships between Farm Credit, community banks, and other lenders to provide much-needed capital to build, renovate, and modernize rural community facilities. 

“Those kinds of facilities are critical to the viability of rural communities because they play key roles in improving the quality of life for rural families,” Van Hoose adds. “Yet, many communities lack these essential facilities, while many other facilities need modernization.” 

Minnesota Rep Michelle Fischbach says one way Congress can support rural communities is by eliminating unnecessary barriers to capital investment. &nbsp;

The Investing in Rural America Act was introduced in the House of Representatives, and the Farm Credit Council reacted positively. “We thank those who introduced the legislation for their commitment to rural communities,” says FCC President and CEO Todd Van Hoose. “This legislation will spur the development of critical facilities in rural communities, such as hospitals, childcare centers, schools, and more.” He also says the bill will facilitate partnerships between Farm Credit, community banks, and other lenders to provide much-needed capital to build, renovate, and modernize rural community facilities. “Those kinds of facilities are critical to the viability of rural communities because they play key roles in improving the quality of life for rural families,” Van Hoose adds. “Yet, many communities lack these essential facilities, while many other facilities need modernization.” Minnesota Rep Michelle Fischbach says one way Congress can support rural communities is by eliminating unnecessary barriers to capital investment. &nbsp;- NAFB

Legislation introduced to improve credit for critical rural facilities

USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore from October 30-November 3. 

The Foreign Ag Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters wanting to take part in the trade mission. 

“Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia,” Taylor says. 

“These markets provide both a source of stability for American exports and a tremendous opportunity to further expand U.S. trade in the region.” She also says consumer demand for American products in both countries is on the rise, making this agribusiness trade mission extremely timely. 

America’s agricultural and related product exports to Malaysia reached $1.13 billion in 2022. U.S. agricultural exports to Singapore grew 190 percent between 2012 and 2022, reaching a record $1.4 billion in 2022. For more information or to apply, go to usda.gov.

USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore from October 30-November 3. The Foreign Ag Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters wanting to take part in the trade mission. “Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia,” Taylor says. “These markets provide both a source of stability for American exports and a tremendous opportunity to further expand U.S. trade in the region.” She also says consumer demand for American products in both countries is on the rise, making this agribusiness trade mission extremely timely. America’s agricultural and related product exports to Malaysia reached $1.13 billion in 2022. U.S. agricultural exports to Singapore grew 190 percent between 2012 and 2022, reaching a record $1.4 billion in 2022. For more information or to apply, go to usda.gov.- NAFB