WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Despite the ongoing government shutdown, agricultural groups continue to push forward with key policy priorities — and that includes the dairy industry.
Alan Bjerga, Senior Vice President of Communications with the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), joined RFD-TV to share updates on several major issues affecting producers.
Bjerga discussed the status of the “Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act,” which passed the U.S. House earlier this year and now awaits action in the Senate. He shared insights on the bill’s outlook heading into the final months of the year and what its passage would mean for school milk options and dairy demand.
He also addressed how the government shutdown is impacting the dairy sector, with USDA programs, data releases, and payments on hold. Bjerga explained how the industry is adapting to the uncertainty and preparing for the potential of a prolonged shutdown.
Finally, he highlighted the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP), noting that its sign-up deadline has been extended to give producers more time to apply. The program provides coverage to producers who experienced losses from natural disasters, helping them recover and maintain operations.
Bjerga said the National Milk Producers Federation remains focused on supporting dairy farmers through policy, advocacy, and relief programs as challenges in Washington continue to unfold.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to discuss seasonal affective disorder, winter mental health, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being in rural communities.
January 21, 2026 01:26 PM
·
Dairy farmer and Discover Ag co-host Tara Vander Dussen joined us to discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, her experience at the signing, and what’s next for her family and farm.
January 21, 2026 12:42 PM
·
The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
January 21, 2026 12:30 PM
·
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.
January 21, 2026 12:03 PM
·
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:25 PM
·
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
·
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
·
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
·
