U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Mike Rounds, along with 21 other senators, have called on Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to prioritize the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) strategy for vaccinating poultry against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The senators emphasized the need for a comprehensive, science-based approach as avian flu cases rise with the onset of winter.
“We are writing to encourage the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to continue prioritizing an avian flu vaccine strategy that takes into account a comprehensive, science-based approach for the potential vaccination of poultry and livestock that have been impacted by this disease,” wrote the Senators. “Avian flu infections have already begun to increase as winter approaches, and it is essential that USDA take renewed action to address and fight this virus.”
The group noted that a draft proposal for an avian flu vaccine strategy is under review at USDA. They urged the department to move quickly in finalizing this process while consulting stakeholders such as animal health experts and industry representatives. “Any finalized vaccine strategy must take into account feedback from animal health stakeholders, industry experts, and be grounded in sound science. It must also be comprehensive in scope, addressing all impacted species, including turkeys and egg-laying hens. Once a vaccine is developed and USDA has confirmed its safety and efficacy, a vaccine strategy for dairy cattle should also be prioritized.”
Several agricultural organizations expressed support for the Senate initiative. Leslee Oden, president and CEO of the National Turkey Federation, stated: “The National Turkey Federation (NTF) commends Senators Amy Klobuchar and Mike Rounds for their bipartisan leadership in elevating the need for a credible, science-driven approach to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) vaccination… We look forward to continuing our work with USDA, members of Congress and industry partners to strengthen animal health, ensure food affordability and maintain access to key export markets.”
Chad Gregory, President and CEO of United Egg Producers said: “America's egg farmers genuinely appreciate the bipartisan Senate cooperation in support of farmers' fight against HPAI. Like everyone, we value food affordability, and we believe that a successful trade strategy that leads to a viable vaccine strategy is the right long-term solution. Consumers love eggs, and we all benefit from the stability of a market where outbreaks of HPAI can be contained.”
Dr. Jamie Jonker from the National Milk Producers Federation highlighted ongoing concerns about biosecurity in dairy herds affected by H5N1 bird flu since 2022: “Dairy farmers and their cooperatives appreciate Ranking Member Klobuchar and Senator Rounds in their efforts… Investing in vaccine development and strategic deployment will be a critical piece of controlling and eradicating this disease from dairies across the country… Until that day, we remain diligent in our work with our partners on Capitol Hill, at USDA, and in the private sector to mitigate H5N1’s negative effects on dairy producers and consumers.”
Ashley Kohls from Minnesota Turkey Growers Association said: “Minnesota’s turkey growers remain committed to implementing science-based solutions that strengthen flock health while protecting our ability to compete in global markets... Her [Senator Klobuchar's] support ensures Minnesota’s turkey farmers can remain resilient…”
Michael Crinion from Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative added: “We appreciate the leadership Senator Klobuchar and Senator Rounds have demonstrated… America’s dairy farmers stand ready for the opportunity to work with USDA on developing an avian influenza strategy for dairy cattle.”
Jordan Woodbury from Dakota Provisions commented: “We thank Senator Mike Rounds and the bipartisan group of signers for recognizing the urgent need for a science-based highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) vaccine strategy… Their support reinforces the critical role a vaccine strategy plays in ensuring we have the tools necessary to combat HPAI…”
According to data cited by lawmakers since 2022 more than 184 million birds across nearly two thousand flocks—including over 21 million turkeys—have been affected by avian flu outbreaks nationwide.
The letter was signed by senators from both parties including John Thune (R-SD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jon Husted (R-OH), Jim Justice (R-WV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mike Lee (R-UT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mark Warner (D-VA), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Todd Young (R-IN) ,and Bernie Moreno(R-OH).
In their letter addressed directly to Secretary Rollins—and referencing previous USDA actions such as its February 26 "Five-Pronged Approach"—the senators requested timely action informed by scientific evidence as well as clear communication with producers.
“We value USDA’s continued action to curb the spread of avian flu. Producers, veterinarians, and the American public depend on timely, science-based action to safeguard animal health and protect our nation’s food security,” they wrote.
