Regulatory

Congressional Republican leaders remain miles apart on their tax and spending plans after essentially agreeing to disagree on key elements. They’ve essentially kicked the tough decisions down the road that would have far-reaching effects for agriculture and rural America. 

During President Joe Biden’s final days in office, his administration tapped never-used legal authority dating back to 2005 to fast-track a series of electric transmission corridors, the types of projects that while viewed as critical to improving the grid and expanding clean energy frequently run into local opposition.

Bayer’s CEO is warning that the company may have stop making Roundup, the popular weedkiller that is also the cause of thousands of lawsuits from people claiming that exposure to it caused their non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission has denied a request by Summit Carbon Solutions to indefinitely delay consideration of the company’s application for a pipeline through the state.

Out with the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. In with Advancing Markets for Producers. That’s the Trump administration’s new name for PCSC, the Biden administration’s $3 billion climate initiative for agriculture.

Republican lawmakers are urging members of the Trump administration to ensure the Make America Healthy Again Commission relies on sound science in developing recommendations about pesticide use and seed oils. 

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is doubling down on promises that the Trump administration will help farmers affecting by tariffs. And she’s downplaying concerns that a key funding source is running dry.

Thousands of USDA employees are planning to leave the agency through a deferred resignation program that could challenge the department’s ability to fulfill critical functions such as food import and export inspections. According to one report, 16,000 USDA employees have opted for buyouts over two rounds. 

Staffing cuts affecting thousands of employees at the Food and Drug Administration could endanger the agency's ability to protect Americans’ health, according to former top FDA officials and some public health experts.

President Donald Trump is set to unveil the largest tariff announcement of his presidency today, in what he has dubbed “Liberation Day” in America. But those hoping for some runway to prepare for new duties may be disappointed. The White House says the new tariffs will come into play immediately.