EVENTS THIS WEEK
- Women’s History Month
- Commodity Classic - March 2-4 (Denver, CO)
- Orthodox Lent Begins
- Mardi Gras - March 4
- Ash Wednesday/First Day of Lent - March 5
- Southern Exposure - March 6-8 (Orlando, FL)
- International Women’s Day - March 8
- Daylight Savings Time begins - 2 A.M., March 9
TODAY’S RURAL RUNDOWN FROM RFD-TV NEWS:
TRUMP’S TARIFFS ON TAP TOMORROW
The Trump Administration’s planned 25-percent tariffs on U.S. exports to both Mexico and Canada go into effect tomorrow, Tuesday, March 4. Canadian officials have expressed concern, as many retailers there are already seeing increased demand for Canadian products.
Following the 10 percent tariff on products from China levied last month, President Donald Trump is eyeing an additional 10 percent increase on those foreign imports. The White House argues that the tariffs are necessary to ensure fair trade. However, apponents of the trade strategy, like Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA) raised concerns over farmers potentially getting caught in the middle. Likewise, industry trade groups like the Farm Bureau Federation are pressing officials to extend the tariff timeline to protect fallout on farmers.
AG SEC. BROOKE ROLLINS ATTENDS COMMODITY CLASSIC
The Commodity Classic is underway, and RFD-TV News spoke at length with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins about some of the most significant issues facing American agriculture.
With Trump’s tariffs set to take effect this week, Sec. Rollins shared her understanding of the anxiety farmers feel about the uncertainty. She addressed the impact of High-Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) on the poultry industry, the rising egg prices, and the mounting inflationary pressures that consumers and farmers face today.
Rollins outlined a new five-point plan to address these issues, focusing on biosecurity, repopulation efforts, and research. She also touched on trade concerns, the importance of passing the 2025 Farm Bill, and California’s need for water solutions. Rollins emphasized the importance of inspiring younger generations and encouraged women to pursue careers in agriculture. She said agriculture is an essential industry passionate about feeding America and the world.
Watch our exclusive interview with Rollins at Commodity Classic at the link below.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT SUSPENDS BOI REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Photo by Chanakon via Adobe Stock
The Treasury Department has suspended Business Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements for farmers and ranchers. After several back-and-forths, producers were facing a March 21 deadline under the Corporate Transparency Act. The department announced it will propose a new rule that will focus on foreign companies, rather than U.S. citizens and domestic businesses.
BIOFUEL TAX CREDITS
Renewable fuel groups are urging lawmakers to take action on reinstating tax credits for biofuels, including the second-generation biofuel producer tax credit, which expired at the end of last year. Geoff Cooper of the Renewable Fuels Association says Congress should prioritize these incentives to support the ethanol industry, which contributed $50 billion to the U.S. GDP last year. Cooper remains optimistic that biofuels will continue to play a key role in the country’s economic growth.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH IN AGRICULTURE
March is Women’s History Month, and we’re celebrating the incredible women who are shaping the future of agriculture! Throughout the month, we’ll be showcasing inspiring stories, interviews, and photos from women making a difference in the agricultural sector.
Stay tuned for special coverage highlighting their contributions on Market Day Report, RFD-TV.com, and over on FarmHER + RanchHER‘s website and social media platforms.
