Added emphasis placed on the food and production supply chain
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) members, the state commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture, hand-selected 9 issues to serve as the organization’s primary policy focus for 2022. They include the 2023 Farm Bill, animal health, climate resiliency, food safety, the food and production supply chain, infrastructure, international trade, workforce development and defining “waters of the United States.”
“These issues were chosen for NASDA’s 2022 focus, as these are the areas state departments of agriculture are uniquely positioned to lead impact and direct policymaking solutions. Most importantly, our members see these issues as priorities we must address to best serve the farmers, ranchers and communities in their states,” says Ted McKinney, NASDA CEO.
Food supply chain issues, animal health, the 2023 Farm Bill and defining WOTUS are not new issues to NASDA, but the organization is giving more attention to these areas in 2022.
McKinney notes the particular importance of finding solutions to supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Food supply chain disruptions compound challenges the industry already faces, and undulating demand and market prices for food and materials have created difficulties for farmers, ranchers, food processors and consumers alike. NASDA members will continue to use their unique influence across all areas of the food system to advocate for policies and forge partnerships that meet the current and local food supply needs of their states,” McKinney says.
COVID-19 also spotlights the importance of protecting animal health. State departments of agriculture regulate and oversee animal health programs in the states, while also serving as the first line of defense against animal disease outbreaks.