Latest Advocacy Updates - August 22, 2025
The White House and the European Union released details of a new trade framework: The EU will eliminate tariffs on all U.S. industrial goods and grant preferential access to U.S. agricultural products (tree nuts, dairy, fruits/vegetables, processed foods, seeds, soybean oil, pork, bison). In turn, the U.S. will cap many EU tariffs at 15% and lower auto/parts tariffs to 15% once the EU formally introduces its legislation. The EU also committed to address U.S. concerns with the EU Deforestation Regulation to avoid trade impacts.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting comments on a plan to shift duties from Washington, D.C., to five regional hubs. The ones nearest to California are Salt Lake City, Utah and Fort Collins, Colorado. California Farm Bureau will submit comments and welcomes yours. Send feedback to us or email USDA at reorganization@usda.gov by Aug. 26.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has issued a declaration enabling the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to grant Emergency Use Authorizations for animal drugs to treat or prevent New World Screwworm (NWS) infestations--important because no FDA-approved NWS drugs currently exist. This complements the U.S. Department of Agriculture's expanded NWS response (e.g., sterile-fly production and border surveillance). Details: FDA press release and Federal Register notice.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency is moving quickly to implement crop insurance changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Updates include improvements to beginning farmer/rancher benefits, area-based coverage, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection and premium subsidies--an encouraging sign of rapid rollout.
This information is being reproduced as a refresher to members on how to apply for appointments.
Having agriculture-focused voices in government ensures our perspective is heard. One way to make an impact is by serving on one of California's 400-plus boards and commissions. Farm Bureau recently hosted Chief Deputy Appointments Secretary Morgan Carvajal, who shared insights on the governor's appointment process
Contact
- Phone: (916) 561-5500
- Fax: (916) 561-4507
- Email: cfbf@cfbf.com
- 2600 River Plaza Dr.
- Sacramento, CA 95833
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