Ag groups urge USDA to take over regulation of GE animals
Calling it a step for “much-needed innovations,” 11 agricultural organizations urged an Agriculture Department takeover of federal regulation of genetically engineered food animals, now in FDA’s hands. The Trump administration proposed the transfer — over FDA objections — in late 2020 and it disappeared into the regulatory underbrush after President Biden took office.
Bird flu found in 29 states, from Idaho to Pennsylvania
Laboratory tests confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in three additional states, Pennsylvania, Idaho and Utah, with losses in domestic flocks nearing 27.4 million birds, said the Agriculture Department.
Today’s Quick Hits
Texas ends duplicate inspections: Gov. Greg Abbott ended state inspection of commercial trucks entering Texas from Mexico, but said the policy, which was criticized by business leaders, could return if illegal border crossings rise. (New York Times)
Court clears Finkenauer candidacy: The Iowa Supreme Court ruled unanimously that former Rep. Abby Finkenauer, the front-runner against Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley, submitted enough signatures to appear on the ballot for the Democratic nomination. (Associated Press)
Pruitt files for Senate: Scott Pruitt, who resigned under fire as EPA administrator during the Trump era, is running in the June 28 Republican primary election for U.S. Senate in Oklahoma. (The Oklahoman)
Fast food, fast increases: Menu prices at fast-food outlets are up 7.2 percent from a year ago, the largest increase since 1981, according to a National Restaurant Association report. (Axios)
On The Calendar
Monday
National CACFP Sponsors Association holds 2022 National Child Nutrition Conference, through Friday, New Orleans.
USDA releases weekly Crop Progress report, 4 p.m. ET.
Tuesday
The National Organic Standards Board holds spring meetings online, through April 28.
USDA and the Census Bureau hold spring Data User’s Meeting, 2 p.m. ET, Chicago. Click here to register or to see the agenda for the afternoon.
Wednesday
CropLife America holds regulatory conference, through Friday, Washington.
The National Institute for Animal Agriculture holds 2022 Annual Conference, through Friday, Kansas City.
USDA releases Livestock Slaughter Annual report, 3 p.m. ET.
Thursday
International Grains Council releases monthly Grain Market Report, London.
USDA releases monthly Chicken and Eggs report, 3 p.m. ET.
Friday
Earth Day, originally envisioned by Wisconsin Sen. Gaylord Nelson as a 1970 nationwide “teach-in” on the environment, is marked for the 52nd year. It became a worldwide observance in 1990. This year’s theme is “Invest in our planet.” The organization Earthday.org describes itself as “the world’s largest recruiter to the environmental movement” with partners in 190 countries.
USDA releases monthly Cattle on Feed and Cold Storage reports, 3 p.m. ET.
