OMAHA, NEBRASKA (RFD News) — Nebraska lawmakers are taking steps to strengthen digital privacy protections for farmers by passing a bill that would prohibit the sale of agricultural data unless a farmer gives written consent.
The proposed Ag Data Privacy Act classifies farm data as a proprietary business asset, requiring companies to obtain permission separate from standard terms-of-service agreements. If companies do not comply, they could face a $1,000 fine.
The bill has not yet been signed into law, but Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen voiced support for a similar measure last year.
The issue is also being addressed at the University of Nebraska, where researchers say tools like sensors, GPS, and cloud-based technology are helping move agriculture forward, but also pose potential entry points for cyber threats. That concern led the university to launch an Ag Security Center to help protect more than 40,000 acres of research land.
Officials say many of the technologies used on farms today are also widely available to consumers, making them potential targets.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
January 15, 2026 01:36 PM
·
NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
January 15, 2026 01:17 PM
·
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
January 15, 2026 12:51 PM
·
House Agriculture Committee Democrats are calling for action on the Farm and Family Relief Act, warning that proposed SNAP cost shifts to states could reduce food assistance for low-income families amid ongoing tariffs and trade disruptions that continue to strain U.S. farmers.
January 15, 2026 12:30 PM
·
Record ethanol production and improving blending demand continue to support corn usage despite rising short-term inventories.
January 15, 2026 11:47 AM
·
Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.
January 15, 2026 10:14 AM
·
