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
Effort aims to reduce wildfire risk in Western Colorado communities
Tariff refunds are underway, potentially returning billions to importers, as agriculture groups push for a larger role in trade policy and investigations.
Farm programs remain small but politically easier to expand.
Export funding aims to strengthen global demand for U.S. commodities.
Investment and access to capital remain critical for agriculture.
Pat Hord with the National Pork Producers Council joined us to recap producer meetings in Washington and discuss key policy priorities including Prop 12 and agricultural labor.

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:

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.
Luke McCrea says his experiences in FFA and 4-H helped shape both his leadership skills and future career goals.
The uncommon delivery has kept one farmer busy caring for four newborn kids at once.
The fifth-generation operation continues balancing family tradition with a focus on growth and sustainability.
The Nevada cattle operation continues focusing on sustainable land management for future generations.