Photo Credit: Pexels Brett Sayles
USDA Secretary Rollins Engages with Pork Producers
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) leadership met with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to address pressing issues in the pork industry. The discussion covered trade, regulatory hurdles, and strategies to protect against foreign animal diseases.
The NPPC team, including President Lori Stevermer (Minnesota), President-elect Duane Stateler (Ohio), and Vice President Rob Brenneman (Iowa), emphasized the economic value of pork exports. They pointed out that exports contribute over $66 in value per hog, generate nearly $16 billion in economic activity, and support more than 140,000 jobs across the U.S.
One major concern was California Proposition 12, which imposes new production standards on pork producers nationwide. The NPPC leaders asked Rollins to push for legislative action to resolve the issue. Rollins previously committed to working with Congress to address the challenges posed by the law.
Another critical discussion point was the pork industry’s readiness for foreign animal diseases such as African swine fever.
NPPC leaders stressed the importance of funding key programs, including the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, the National Veterinary Stockpile, and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank.