In The News

Aug 6, 2024

Congressional Letter to Commerce Questions Tariffs on Popular Herbicide

Key Issues: Trade

Author: Bryan Goodman

Eighteen members of Congress sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo yesterday saying they are concerned that tariffs on imports of a widely used herbicide – called 2,4-D – could compromise reliable, affordable access to agricultural inputs. The effort was led by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Reps. Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.).   “Agricultural producers already face record high input costs while competing in a volatile market and prices for all crops are forecasted to decline over the next several years,” the representatives said.  “Without careful consideration of the facts during these preliminary investigations, new tariffs will result in difficulties for producers who rely on this critical input. This will only exacerbate their economic challenges.” The National Corn Growers Association supported the congressional effort. “Duties on 2,4-D imports would intensify what is already a difficult period for many growers as key input costs...

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Aug 2, 2024

NCGA Reminds Congress Farm Bill Remains on To-Do List

Key Issues: Farm Bill

Author: Bryan Goodman

As members of Congress head to their home states and districts for the August recess, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is reminding Representatives and Senators that the farm bill is still on their legislative to-do list this year.   “The farm bill is a top legislative priority for corn growers and agriculture at large,” said Minnesota farmer and NCGA President Harold Wolle. “There is still an opportunity to build upon the 2018 farm bill by strengthening the commodity, conservation, trade and crop insurance titles and USDA programs."   The farm bill was originally scheduled for reauthorization in 2023. Last November, Congress voted to extend the legislation to September 30, 2024, with the Agriculture Committee leaders committing to work together to pass the legislation this year.   “We are counting on our elected officials to find a path forward for a strong bipartisan farm bill that can be signed into law this year,” Wolle said. “Let’s get it...

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