DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski co-sponsored an action item urging USDA and Congress to appropriately fund state meat inspection programs. He says adequate funding would ensure a healthy and robust meat supply.
This was during the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Winter Policy Conference this month.
“Wisconsin’s livestock farmers rely on the availability of state-inspected meat processing facilities, and in recent years, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service has been providing states significantly less funding,” Romanski says. “This reduction in federal funding has the potential to impact state services and the meat processing industry.”
NASDA members continued to amplify the need for an updated, unified 2024 Farm Bill.
“Wisconsin agriculture depends on the Farm Bill to strengthen conservation and climate resilience efforts, ensure a food safety supply, and develop local food systems,” Romanski says. “The Farm Bill provides important funding to invest in agriculture research, respond to animal disease, and promote international trade.”
Romanski is an active member of the Food Export Association of the Midwest USA. Its Board of Directors meeting was at the 2024 NASDA Winter Policy Conference. Romanski currently serves as Secretary/Treasurer of the organization.
Wisconsin is increasing the export of agricultural goods through the state-funded Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports.
“I am pleased we are able to leverage NASDA and Food Export-Midwest funding, resources, and connections to further our reach globally, which ultimately benefits Wisconsin farmers and agribusinesses,” Romanski says.
Throughout the conference, NASDA members discussed numerous topics impacting the country’s agricultural industry including workforce. The group approved several policy amendments to give technical assistance and financial support to farmers.
“In Wisconsin, our farms and agribusinesses count on a strong, reliable workforce to thrive,” Romanski says. “We continue to share with young people in our state about the numerous career opportunities available in agriculture and work alongside industry partners to develop ideas to bolster our agricultural education and workforce training.”