Farm Bureau Sends Health Focused Policy Plan

AFBF shares farm based health recommendations with MAHA Commission

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has submitted a series of recommendations to the Make America Health Again (MAHA) Commission, focusing on improving health outcomes through strong agricultural policies. These recommendations aim to ensure farmers can continue producing safe, nutritious, and affordable food. 

“Farmers and ranchers share the goal of advancing health in America,” said Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall. “Healthy meals start with healthy farms, which is a responsibility farmers take seriously. Investing in research, rewarding innovation and alleviating overregulation helps them reach that goal. We appreciate the opportunity to share these policy recommendations that can directly and positively improve farmers’ ability to meet the needs of a healthy America.” 

The organization’s proposals focus on four key areas. 

• Innovation and Sustainability: AFBF urges greater support for precision application tools and advanced farming technologies. The plan calls for funding improvements in farm automation and the inclusion of biostimulants and biological products. Public discussions are also recommended to define regenerative agriculture. 

• Smart Regulations: Modernizing farm labor programs is key to helping farmers manage their operations. The Farm Bureau also advocates for protecting U.S. markets from foreign food surpluses. Reintroducing whole milk in school meals and making it easier for schools and food banks to buy directly from farms are part of the plan. More support is suggested for small and mid-sized farms serving local buyers. 

• Agricultural Research: AFBF seeks more funding for USDA agencies that lead agricultural research. The emphasis is on projects helping specialty crop growers like fruit and nut farmers. 

• Pesticide Management: The group recommends faster approval processes for new pesticide tools and more resources for agencies that handle pesticide regulation. 

AFBF is also part of the Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance, which submitted its own report focused on healthy soil, clean air, and water. 

These combined efforts aim to create a more sustainable, innovative, and health-conscious farming future for America. 

Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation