The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture CEO Ted McKinney said on Apr. 30 that the organization supports the passage of H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, by the U.S. House of Representatives.
The farm bill is seen as important for supporting farmers, ranchers, and consumers while promoting economic growth in rural areas. It also aims to reinforce local food programs and international market opportunities.
“NASDA applauds the House of Representatives and congratulates Chairman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson and members of the House Agriculture Committee for passing the bipartisan farm bill,” McKinney said. “This legislation supports farmers, ranchers and consumers and provides economic growth for rural communities. NASDA stands ready to continue collaboration to advance this critical legislation.” He added that NASDA will work with Senate leaders to help introduce their version of the farm bill so it can be signed into law.
H.R. 7567 includes provisions such as strengthening local food purchasing programs, enhancing international market access, reauthorizing foreign animal disease prevention measures, and preserving funding for specialty crop grants—measures identified as priorities by state agriculture departments in a recent letter from NASDA to lawmakers.
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture represents commissioners, secretaries and directors from all 50 states and four U.S. territories according to its official website. The association advances American food systems through policy initiatives, partnerships with regional associations and trade groups according to its official website, community involvement according to its official website, land preservation efforts according to its official website, safe food access according to its official website, and influencing federal agricultural policy based on state perspectives according to its official website.
Looking ahead, NASDA plans continued engagement with congressional leaders as they seek a final bipartisan agreement on agricultural policy.
