Following the U.S. Department of Agriculture's announcement of a new strategy to tackle highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), there has been widespread support from agriculture and government leaders across the country. The five-pronged approach aims to enhance biosecurity, assist farmers, and stabilize food prices.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins shared details of the plan on FOX News and in a Wall Street Journal op-ed. The initiative comes after President Trump's first Cabinet Meeting of this term.
Several state governors expressed their approval:
Gov. Spencer Cox (UT) stated, "I was grateful to meet with @SecRollins last week to review this plan, which is a huge win for American agriculture! @USDA is investing $1 billion to protect poultry farmers, strengthen biosecurity, and lower egg prices for families."
Gov. Brad Little (ID) commented, "This is exactly the type of leadership we have been looking for from @USDA."
Gov. Jim Pillen (NE) added his thanks: "Thank you @SecRollins & USDA for taking the lead on this critical animal health issue."
Senators also voiced their support:
Sen. John Boozman (AR) remarked, "Before we get started, I want to take a moment to thank Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins for her announcement today on a bold strategy to address avian influenza."
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (MN) emphasized that "The Department of Agriculture’s avian flu strategy is an important step to support our farmers who are losing flocks and help consumers facing skyrocketing egg prices."
Rep. Dave Taylor (OH) urged congressional backing: “Congress must support @USDA to combat high egg prices & keep food affordable for Ohio families.”
Industry organizations like the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and American Farm Bureau Federation acknowledged USDA's efforts as well.
American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall said, “We appreciate USDA’s blueprint for tackling avian influenza America’s farmers are committed to ensuring a safe and abundant food supply.”
The plan outlines substantial investments: "$500M for farm biosecurity - $400M for farmer relief - $100M for R&D," according to both The White House and House Committee on Agriculture statements.
As stakeholders continue collaborating with USDA under Secretary Rollins' leadership, they aim toward effective solutions against HPAI while maintaining economic stability within the agricultural sector.
