Mike Johanns: Tax Court Rules Innovations in Livestock Production Qualify for R&D Tax Credit

Alliant Chairman of Agriculture and former U.S. Ag Secretary Mike Johanns explains the R&D Tax Credit, the recent Tax Court ruling, and ways livestock producers and agribusinesses can qualify.

cow behind fence wind turbine in the background Sustainability_Adobe Stock.png

Adobe Stock

OMAHA, NEB. (RFD NEWS) — A recent U.S. Tax Court ruling confirms that innovations in livestock production do qualify for the Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit, opening the door for more producers to take advantage of the long-standing incentive.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President George W. Bush and former Nebraska lawmaker Mike Johanns, who now serves as Alliant’s Chairman of Agriculture, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss what he has described as a watershed moment for agriculture.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Johanns explains how the ruling applies to livestock production, common practices that may qualify for the R&D credit, what producers should know about eligibility, and whether it extends across the industry.

Johanns also outlines the potential benefits for livestock producers, including the types of benefits they could receive by claiming the credit. He also addresses whether the incentive can be redeemed this tax season, how farmers can claim it, and offers advice for farmers and agribusinesses, livestock or otherwise, as they consider pursuing the R&D credit.

Before wrapping up, Johanns reflects on the current state of the agricultural economy and shares what he views as key issues across the agriculture industry today. in the industry today.

To learn more about the R&D Tax Credit, visit: https://www.alliantgroup.com/industries/agriculture/

Related Stories
JBS representatives told Reuters that the original deal has not changed and that they welcome employees back to the facility.
Charly Cummings with Superior Livestock Auctions provides a real-time look at cattle market activity, demand trends, and what lies ahead for upcoming livestock auctions in Texas.
Ag Literacy Week connects students to farming through school visits and hands-on learning
Real Ag Radio’s Shaun Haney talks about astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s historic moment in space with NASA’s Artemis II mission, and Hansen’s connection to agriculture as the son of a Canadian farmer.
North Carolina Farmer Trey Braswell joined us to discuss the White House Easter Egg Roll, his company’s continued involvement, and efforts to expand access to eggs nationwide.
Rancher and Americans for Prosperity Director Tyler Lindholm breaks down the Wyoming Food Freedom Act, clarifies licensing questions, and discusses the future of local agriculture in the state.

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:

Geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt fertilizer shipments, raising costs and creating uncertainty for U.S. farmers ahead of planting season.
APHIS Veterinary Medical Officer Dr. Chelsey Shiveley discusses USDA’s biosecurity resources available to poultry producers ahead of spring migration, increasing the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) threatens commercial flocks.
Even some Democrats have expressed support for dismantling cartel operations. South Texas Congressman Vicente Gonzalez said he agrees with Trump on the issue.
This year at CattleCon 2026, RFD Network’s Kirbe Schnoor caught up with Donna Emick from Pneu-Dart to get her perspective on why education, safety, and accountability matter in the field.
Nebraska’s largest wildfire on-record has burned 650,000 acres, with three other major fires also burning across the state, destroying pastureland and threatening cattle.
NCBA President Colin Woodall states that misinformation like this is damaging to cattle producers, the beef supply chain, and consumer confidence