Oregon FFA CEO Responds to Proposed Budget Cuts Impacting 15,000+ Ag Students

Oregon FFA CEO Kjer Kizer discusses the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting learning opportunities for students interested in agriculture.

OAKLAND, Ore. (RFD-TV) — Oregon FFA is facing potential state budget cuts that could impact agricultural education programs and more than 15,000 students across the state. Lawmakers are reportedly considering eliminating state funding for Oregon FFA and grants that support ag educators.

Kjer Kizer, CEO of Oregon FFA, joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting opportunities for students interested in agriculture.

In her interview with RFD-TV News, Kizer explained that Oregon FFA plays a critical role in supporting students involved in agricultural education and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. She outlined how cuts to funding could affect classrooms, teachers, and student opportunities, emphasizing that participation in FFA is growing rapidly.

Kizer also highlighted the importance of programs like FFA, summer ag education grants, and CTE pathway grants in preparing students for real-world careers. She encouraged viewers who care about agricultural education and workforce development to take action to support Oregon FFA.

Related Stories
UMN Extension’s Emily Krekelberg outlines today’s top farm stressors, key signs of mental health distress in rural communities, and the resources available for support.
The ACRE Act modestly reduces farmland borrowing costs now, with more savings possible once federal guidance clarifies which loans qualify.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is helping connect veterans with resources to pursue careers in farming and agriculture.
Manure from a hog farm is more than just waste; it is also becoming a key renewable resource for operations.

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:

Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features swine competition with top exhibitors, including Grand Champion Brinley Wilson, ahead of Saturday’s premium sale.
Rep. Erin Houchin of Indiana discusses how the Affordable Homes Act will benefit rural communities, and her broader efforts to improve access to affordable housing.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.
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.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.