Farm Action is calling on the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to investigate what they call fraud within the checkoff programs.
In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Elon Musk, Farm Action says checkoff programs lack transparency and oversight and cost farmers more than a billion dollars annually. They say more than 60 farm groups have called for some checkoff reform over the years.
Since taking office, President Donald Trump has directed cuts across the government, with more possible in the coming weeks. DOGE is asking the public to help identify areas for investigation, including agencies within the USDA.
Related Stories
The Illinois Farm Bureau shows how hemp can regenerate the earth and boost rural economies.
A slimmed-down Farm Bill is back on the table in Washington, with lawmakers pushing for a deal by Fall 2025. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas weighs in with his outlook.
Demand for farm loans surged in the first quarter of the year, topping the previous record set in 2016.