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
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, discusses EPA DEF system changes and what they mean for the supply chain and fuel costs.
Industry leaders argue the decision could disrupt confidence in conservation practices and increase regulatory uncertainty for producers across the region.
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
Texas ranchers and lawmakers warn of renewed New World screwworm risks, highlighting prevention efforts, border concerns, and the role of sterile flies in protecting U.S. livestock.
USDA Undersecretary Dr. Mindy Brashears provides more insight on the updated “Product of USA” label campaign and the USDA’s goals for both consumers and producers.
Reduced driver supply may increase freight costs this season.

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:

Favorable weather and hard work are leading to high strawberry yields and steady crowds at Green Acres Farm, a u-pick destination in Cochran, Georgia.
The goal is to start conversations and connect farmers with help when they need it.
Members from across the state will gather for competitions, workshops and leadership opportunities.
Student Katelyn Lindsay is traveling the country to support growers and connect consumers to the crop.
Nebraska cattle rancher Joe Van Newkirk joins us to discuss wildfire recovery in Nebraska’s Sandhills athe challenges ranchers face restoring basic infrastructure after the fire.
One student is working to help farmers protect livestock and property.