Convert SNAP to block grant
SNAP “is in dire need of reform,” and the solution is to turn the program into a block grant that requires states to share the cost of benefits, said a group speaking for conservative House Republicans. The Republican Study Committee budget package also said lawmakers should follow former President Donald Trump’s lead to slash farm supports.
Senate bill would invalidate Prop 12 through lawsuits
Irked by California’s Proposition 12, seven farm-state senators announced legislation on Thursday to prohibit states from regulating agricultural production in other states. Virtually anyone — producer, distributor, trade group, transporter, consumer, and laborer were named in the bill — would be empowered to challenge such regulatory infringement in court and seek financial compensation.
TODAY’S QUICK HITS
Corn, soy drought grows: Drought covers 57 percent of corn land and 51 percent of soybean land, up 12 percentage points for both crops in the past week, with conditions worsening in the Midwest. (Drought Monitor)
Bayer settles suit: As part of a settlement of a lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James, Bayer will pay $6.9 million and stop advertising Roundup, an herbicide that contains glyphosate, as safe and nontoxic. (Reuters)
Right-to-repair expands: CLAAS of America is the fifth farm equipment company to sign a right-to-repair memorandum giving farmers and independent repair shops access to technical manuals and tools to fix equipment themselves. (American Farm Bureau Federation)
USDA supply chain assistance: Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced $320 million in grants, loans, and loan guarantees for projects in 19 states to strengthen supply chains and expand marketing opportunities for producers. (USDA)
Meat consumption to dip: U.S. meat consumption will decline marginally in 2024, to 222.7 pounds per person, due mainly to reduced beef production as cattle supplies tighten and prices rise. (USDA)
