Ag Retailers Back Transportation Bill Focused on Supply Chains

Richard Gupton says reliable roads, bridges and rail systems remain essential for ag retailers and the broader farm supply chain.

ARLINGTON, Va. (RFD News) — A bipartisan surface transportation bill moving through Congress is drawing support from agricultural retailers who say reliable infrastructure remains essential to the farm supply chain.

The Build America 250 Act recently passed the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and includes investments tied to roads, bridges, railways and freight movement.

Richard Gupton with the Agricultural Retailers Association joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to discuss what the legislation could mean for agriculture and ag retailers.

In his conversation with RFD News, Gupton broke down several key parts of the bill and why transportation infrastructure remains critical for moving fertilizer, crop protection products, and other farm supplies efficiently across the country.

The discussion also focused on language requiring the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to review differences in how states enforce the seasonal agricultural CDL program and how those regulations impact the industry.

Gupton additionally shared his outlook on the legislation as it continues moving through Congress.

Related Stories
Union leaders warn many federal researchers may leave their jobs rather than move to regional hubs.
A bipartisan Senate delegation recently traveled to China ahead of President Trump’s meeting in Beijing.
Reports say cattle industry groups raised concerns over a proposal that could increase beef imports.
USDA says planting progress remains strong nationwide, though some soybean fields are still slow to emerge.
Trucking industry expert Lewie Pugh joins us to discuss rising diesel costs, challenges facing independent truckers, and the broader impact on agriculture and rural transportation.
The White House is reportedly moving forward with beef import tariff reductions as officials look to lower food costs for consumers.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Texas officials say sterile fly releases and expanded surveillance efforts are helping slow the spread of the flesh-eating pest.
Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance says recent futures market moves are leaving cattle producers unsure about price trends.
The coalition says the program was designed to make cover crop enrollment faster and easier for producers.
European officials say the temporary move is aimed at easing pressure on farmers as conflict in the Middle East disrupts fertilizer markets.
Canadian industry leaders argue the tax policies cited by U.S. officials are similar to exemptions already used by American growers.
Seven McIlhenny Company employees received the Louisiana Honor Medal for their military service.