June 17, 2025 – Swine Web News Desk
This week’s update from the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) highlights critical legislative progress, policy responses, and organizational developments impacting pork producers across the U.S.
🐖 Animal Health Legislation Gains Bipartisan Support
NPPC praised newly introduced House and Senate bills aimed at funding key USDA programs combating foreign animal diseases (FADs). These include support for the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, the Veterinary Stockpile, and the Animal Vaccine Bank—key tools in managing risks like ASF, CSF, and Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
“This legislation is key to maintaining pork’s safety, security, and affordability,” said NPPC President Duane Stateler.
💵 House Agriculture Funding Bill Includes Swine Priorities
The House Appropriations Committee advanced a $25.5 billion USDA funding bill for FY2026 with several pork-focused wins:
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$500K increase for swine health programs
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$1M boost for the Swine Health Improvement Plan
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$500K for feral swine eradication
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Directs USDA to study Prop. 12’s economic impacts
The bill also blocks expansion of the Packers and Stockyards Act (PSA) without proof of harm to competition—aligning with NPPC’s position on fair livestock marketing rules.
✅ Stephen Vaden Confirmed as USDA Deputy Secretary
Former USDA General Counsel Stephen Vaden was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Secretary. NPPC supported his nomination, citing his previous work defending pork industry interests, including strategies related to Proposition 12.
🧪 Secretary Rollins Testifies on Prop. 12, MAHA Report, and Disease Research
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins reaffirmed her commitment to addressing Prop. 12, stating it’s “not constitutional” when impacting other states. She also acknowledged criticism of the recent MAHA Commission report and committed to better agricultural representation in future reports.
Concerns about the transfer of duties from Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) to NBAF were also raised. Rollins assured lawmakers of continued FAD research and diagnostic capabilities.
🌐 Ag Groups Oppose Closure of State Dept. Agricultural Offices
NPPC and 21 other ag groups urged the State Department not to eliminate key agricultural policy offices during a proposed reorganization. These offices play a critical role in trade negotiations, global standards, and defending U.S. ag interests on the world stage.
👥 NPPC Expands Its Leadership Team
NPPC announced three new hires to support its advocacy and communication efforts:
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Wendy Brannen, VP of Communications and Marketing
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Shannon McMurtrey-Belson, Senior Director of International Affairs
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Dillon Davidson, Director of State Policy
These additions bring deep experience in agriculture, policy, and international trade to support pork producers at all levels.
For more updates on pork industry policy, biosecurity, and trade, stay tuned to Swine Web.
