Fairness for Farmers

Advocating for farmers and our rural communities

What’s Happening: A few years ago Farmers Union started a campaign called Fairness for Farmers. Its main focus is to focus on consolidation in Agriculture.

Go Deeper:

https://nfu.org/fairness-for-farmers/

Why it Matters: Consolidation in Agriculture hurts everyone. From the farmer to the consumer. It means less money for farmers and higher prices for consumers. In almost every sector of Agriculture whether it be seed, chemical or the meat industry, consolidation is happening. The fact sheet below, although dated, still does a good job of explaining what is happening.

Go Deeper:

https://nfu.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Consolidation-Fact-Sheet-FINAL.pdf

One big thing: In September, Farmers Union had our annual fly-in to Washington D.C. Hundreds of Farmers from around the country came to Washington hitting every congressional office and the many agencies that affect those of us in Agriculture. From the EPA, USDA, FTC, OMB and the Anti-trust division of the Justice Department. We were also able to hear from Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. He brought out his famous Whiteboard to explain the opportunities there are in the Climate Smart Ag space and sustainable aviation fuel amongst other topics.

Go Deeper:

https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2023/09/13/usda-celebrates-first-year-partnerships-climate-smart-commodities

The Big Picture: Here are a few of the issues we talked about. Below is a link to all of the issues we discussed with an explainer of each.

• The Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act

• American Beef Labeling Act

• Guaranteeing Farmers Right to Repair.

• Next Generation Fuels Act

• Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act

Go Deeper on these issues:

https://nfu.org/fly-in/

What’s Next: We have to continue to advocate for these issues. With fewer and fewer people in Agriculture it is so important to educate policy makers on the issues that matter to us. I encourage you to contact your lawmaker. The switch board number is 202-224-3121.

The Bottom Line: Agriculture affects us all. And remember that Democracy is not a specter sport. Make sure your voice is heard!

Atop the USDA Building it says “Dedicated to the Service of Agriculture for the Public Welfare”

The Farmers Share: Here is a chart that shows the Farmers Share of the Food Dollar. Feel free to share this.

JOIN: Consider Joining Farmers Union.

https://iowafarmersunion.org/membership/member-sign-up-renewal/

One Fun Thing: We attended a briefing in what is called “The Caucus Room” in the Russell Senate Office Building. As a historian, It was amazing all of the famous hearings that had taken place in that room. Enjoy!