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.
With record grain harvests and rising global ethanol demand, leaders across the ag and energy sectors are pushing for year-round E15 sales to mitigate the strain on grain trade.
December 22, 2025 02:45 PM
·
Pork producers warn that proposed definitions of “ultra-processed” food in guidelines from the “Make America Healthy Again” plan could negatively impact industry-standard bacon, sausage, and feed practices.
December 22, 2025 01:38 PM
·
Concerns over Chronic Wasting Disease are fueling a long-standing legal battle between Minnesota regulators and deer farmers. The case could soon reach the state’s Supreme Court with broader implications for agriculture.
December 22, 2025 01:31 PM
·
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) are praising the passage of a bill to delist gray wolves as an endangered species by the U.S. House last week.
December 22, 2025 01:23 PM
·
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg told RFD-TV News that we can only guess what Congress will do down the road. Still, the USDA recognizes its responsibility to spend resources efficiently and effectively.
December 22, 2025 12:40 PM
·
In Minnesota, a legal and legislative battle has reached a tipping point. For over a decade, the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the private deer-farming industry have been locked in a dispute over the management of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
December 22, 2025 12:30 PM
·
