Key Takeaways

• Brooke Rollins is likely to be confirmed as Secretary of Agriculture, emphasizing protection for U.S. agriculture in light of potential trade tensions.
• A bipartisan bill introduced seeks to revoke China’s Permanent Normal Trade Relations, proposing significant tariffs on Chinese imports.
• The International Fresh Produce Association urges immediate actions from the Trump administration to support the agricultural workforce and increase fresh produce consumption.

Brooke Rollins on Agriculture Policy

Brooke Rollins appeared before the Senate Agriculture Committee, where she defended President Trump’s policies while pledging to prioritize U.S. agriculture protection. Despite the absence of her FBI paperwork, a vote on her nomination could take place next week. Rollins indicated the USDA might initiate a new round of Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments if Trump’s tariffs reignite a trade war. She mentioned her discussions with former Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue about adjustments to the MFP.

During her testimony, Rollins did not fully assure senators that farmers would remain unaffected by the administration’s deportation plans, stating that initial deportations would target migrants with criminal histories. She also plans to collaborate with the Labor Department to consider H-2A visa program revisions, although changes will require Congressional action.

Pest Management and PFAS Legislation

Rollins’ mother, Helen Kerwin, has taken an active role in addressing an important issue for farmers and ranchers — the hazardous PFAS chemicals found in biosolids used for fertilization. Kerwin has introduced a bill in the Texas Legislature mandating testing for specific PFAS and establishing limits on their concentrations in biosolids, with severe penalties for violations. She has committed to advocating for farmers impacted by high PFAS levels, asserting that current measurements in her area are alarmingly high.

Bipartisan Efforts on Trade Relations

In Congress, Representatives John Moolenaar and Tom Suozzi introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at ending Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) with China. The proposed legislation would phase in a 35% minimum tariff rate on Chinese imports, alongside potential 100% tariffs on strategically important goods. This bill reflects a growing consensus among lawmakers about the need to reassess the U.S.-China economic relationship. Senator Tom Cotton has also sponsored a Senate version of the bill, although it lacks Democratic support. The proposal aims to bolster assistance for U.S. farmers facing tariff retaliation, with tariff revenues allocated to a trust fund supporting agricultural products.

Priorities from the Fresh Produce Sector

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has outlined its key priorities for the Trump administration’s first 100 days, focusing on critical issues in the agricultural sector. IFPA is advocating for improved workforce conditions, increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, and updated pesticide regulations. The association emphasizes aligning the H-2A visa calculations with market conditions and promoting fresh produce access through various programs. They also call for modernization of biotechnology regulations and for the USDA’s Office of Pest Management to coordinate with the EPA on crop protection policies.

Reports indicate that Trump recently reiterated claims about unfair trading conditions for U.S. agriculture during remarks at the World Economic Forum. Despite these assertions, data shows that the U.S. has experienced a long-term trade deficit in agriculture with the European Union.

In congressional news, nominees for leadership positions in the Environmental Protection Agency and the Departments of Energy and Interior have received bipartisan approval, with Lee Zeldin, Chris Wright, and Doug Burgum likely to progress to the Senate floor for confirmation.

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