WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — Cattle producers from across the country recently traveled to Washington for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Legislative Conference as ranchers continue navigating a wide range of industry issues.
Producers say concerns surrounding regulations, market conditions and natural disasters are continuing to impact cattle operations across the country.
The three-day conference included policy briefings from NCBA’s Washington staff before producers headed to Capitol Hill to meet directly with lawmakers.
Attendees say those conversations help lawmakers better understand how decisions made in Washington impact cattle producers and rural communities back home.
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NCBA CEO Colin Woodall says more conversations need to occur with stakeholders present surrounding President Trump’s proposal to lower consumer beef prices with Argentinian imports.
API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
