Joco Today

U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, Tammy Baldwin, and Michael Bennet have reintroduced the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act. This bipartisan bill aims to establish a new pathway at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for novel feed additives to enhance livestock efficiency and production.

Senator Marshall emphasized the need for this legislation by stating, "The agricultural industry sets the gold standard when it comes to livestock production." He added that outdated regulations are hindering the feed industry, pushing innovations overseas instead of fostering them domestically. Marshall expressed pride in collaborating with his fellow senators to develop a solution that supports rural America.

Senator Moran highlighted the benefits of the bill for Kansas producers, saying, "This legislation will help bolster the animal feed industry and make certain producers in Kansas and across the country continue to have access to feed additives that support animal nutrition."

Wisconsin's Senator Baldwin pointed out the potential for farmers to reduce their environmental impact with these innovative products, noting that current bureaucratic red tape is a barrier. She said, "I’m proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to break down barriers for our farmers."

Senator Bennet stressed creating a level playing field for American cattlemen and dairy farmers compared to their European and South American counterparts who already use such additives. He stated that it's crucial to provide tools that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring health and safety.

Additional support comes from Senators Chuck Grassley, Angus King, and Amy Klobuchar. Senator Grassley remarked on removing FDA hurdles so products can reach markets faster, enhancing America's competitiveness in animal feed products.

Endorsements for the bill come from various organizations including the American Feed Industry Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Milk Producers Federation, National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), Environmental Defense Fund, North American Renderers Association, International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), and National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).

Constance Cullman of the American Feed Industry Association praised Senator Marshall's leadership in providing FDA with necessary tools for reviewing new animal food ingredients. Chuck Conner from the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives called it a critical step toward empowering American farmers.

Gregg Doud from the National Milk Producers Federation commended Senators Marshall, Baldwin, Moran, and Bennet for modernizing FDA's regulatory framework. NGFA President Mike Seyfert urged Congress to act swiftly on this reform.

Kent Swisher from North American Renderers Association highlighted how this legislation could advance innovation in animal agriculture. Michael Dykes from IDFA supported it for creating regulatory pathways benefiting environmental efforts in dairy supply chains.

NASDA CEO Ted McKinney noted its importance in promoting voluntary adoption of new tools by producers.

The full text of this legislation is available online.