NPPC discusses farm bill, disease spread

The National Pork Producers Council hosted a webinar Sept. 9 to talk about policy issues facing the industry, including the ongoing efforts for a new farm bill and foreign animal disease prevention. NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys said it is an important time for the industry. “There are a number of challenges and opportunities that face us out there,” he said. “The U.S. remains a global leader in pork production. … We are working to keep producers in business, and provide a safe, healthy supply for consumers.” A new farm bill is the top policy priority for the organization. “We need a farm bill now,” Humphreys said. “We don’t need to be talking about an extension. We need to be talking about a new farm bill in 2024.” NPPC president Lori Stevermer, who raises pigs in Minnesota, said the industry needs a farm bill this year otherwise the progress the House ag committee has made on the legislation will go back to square one with a new Congress. “We know it’s hard, but we elect members of