Champions of Rural America: U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer of Alabama on Reducing Regulatory Burdens for Farmers

Congressman Gary Palmer of Alabama joined us to discuss federal overreach, transparency efforts, and legislative solutions impacting agriculture on this week’s Champions of Rural America.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — Addressing federal overreach in agriculture has long been a priority for farmers, with ongoing concerns ranging from water rights to property restrictions and a number of legal cases over the years.

Congressman Gary Palmer of Alabama joined us on this week’s Champions of Rural America to take a closer look at efforts to bring transparency to federal settlement agreements.

In his interview with RFD News, Palmer discussed a recent House Oversight Committee roundtable on the growing use of lawfare against American agriculture, sharing key takeaways from the discussion. He also outlined his recently introduced “SAID Act,” explaining how the legislation aims to increase transparency and accountability for federal settlement agreements.

Palmer went on to address the burden of overregulation on farmers and discussed how litigation has shaped farm policy. He also spoke about what farmers can do to support themselves and the industry amid the current affordability challenges.

Finally, he shared his perspective on potential solutions to help agriculture address ongoing concerns over federal overreach.

Related Stories
Building on the USDA’s recently released Grazing Action Plan, the agreement formalizes collaboration between the USDA, Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management to ensure more efficient, transparent, and responsive grazing management across federal lands.
Dry conditions remain a concern as Texas farmers prepare for another planting season.
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler breaks down the Grocery Guarantee Program, its goals for expanding farmer access to capital, and its potential impact on food production and prices.
The five-day auction drew up to 6,000 people and saw steady prices throughout the event
Longview FFA gives students practical experience from meat processing to floral design in their unique curriculum.
Cattle farmer Scott Porter, Kentucky Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farmer of the Year, discusses his commitment to mentorship and the importance of strengthening the future of agriculture.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

As spring migration ramps up, USDA officials warn farmers about rising bird flu risks and urge stronger biosecurity measures. Resources are available through APHIS to help protect livestock.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how conflict in the Middle East is affecting spring planting as farmers navigate the evolving situation.
The Mosaic Company’s Keith Byerly shares smart input investment strategies, fertilizer considerations, and ways growers can manage risk heading into the 2026 growing season.
NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses the evolving role of ethanol in the current energy crisis, opportunities for expanding corn discusses the evolving role of ethanol in the current marketdemand, and the industry’s outlook moving forward.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins surveys Nebraska wildfire damage as cattle losses, tight supplies, rising imports, and beef industry investigations impact U.S. markets. Roger McEowen outlines legal and tax considerations for ranchers recovering from wildfire damage.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller launches Agricultural Defense Program to combat pests, disease, and predators threatening farmers and ranchers statewide.