POLICY WATCH
Farm Bureau, NPPC Present Prop 12 Arguments in Supreme Court
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) presented oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court this week, challenging the ability of one state to set agricultural production standards for the entire country. The case involves California’s Proposition 12 law that bans the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet the state’s arbitrary production standards, even if the hogs were raised outside of California.
“Today’s arguments have implications not just for farmers and ranchers, but for businesses and consumers across the country,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “At the heart of this argument is whether one state can set the rules for the entire country. Proposition 12 has the potential to put small hog farmers out of business by requiring costly renovations and forces them to adopt practices that farmers and their veterinarians may find harmful to their animals.
“Farmers share California’s goal of ensuring animals are well cared for and raised in a safe environment. Unfortunately, Proposition 12’s misguided approach will ultimately cost every family through higher food prices.”
Read the Supreme Court brief here.
Federal Milk Marketing Order Forum Successfully Brings Sector Together
The American Farm Bureau Federation was joined by representatives of the National Milk Producers Federation, dairy cooperatives, processors, state dairy associations and dairy farmers from across the country for a successful first-of-its-kind industry-wide Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) Forum.
The three-day event provided a platform for farmers’ voices to be heard while also answering the call from USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to bring the dairy producer community together to discuss FMMO modernization. Discussions at the forum focused on Class price formulas and de-pooling, among other topics.
Election Deadlines are Approaching
The General Election is November 8. If you haven’t register to vote, you can do so at you county election official’s office by Oct. 28. One of the best and easiest activities Nebraska Farm Bureau members can do to help our endorsed candidates get elected is to identify high visibility locations for campaign signs. If you would like to request a sign for your property, please contact Jay Ferris jayf@nefb.org or 402-450-3966.
Important Dates to Remember
- October 28 – Deadline to register to vote at county election official’s office
- October 28 – Last day to request a ballot be mailed to you
- November 8 – Election Day
Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC) endorses candidates for federal and state public office based on their commitment to and positions on agricultural issues, qualifications and previous experience, communication abilities, their ability to represent their constituents and recommendations form district evaluation committees. Farm Bureau members are encouraged to support NEFB-PAC endorsed candidates in elections.
