On today’s episode of The Turkey Talk Show, Iowa Turkey Federation Lobbyist Jill Altringer and Addison Murtha, Government Affairs Manager for the National Turkey Federation (NTF), provide a legislative update covering both state and national issues
On today’s episode of The Turkey Talk Show, Iowa Turkey Federation Lobbyist Jill Altringer and Addison Murtha, Government Affairs Manager for the National Turkey Federation (NTF), provide a legislative update covering both state and national issues. A major topic was Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI); in February, Secretary Rollins introduced a five-step plan initially targeting egg production, which has now expanded to include all poultry species. A point to note is the expanded biosecurity assessments and voluntary audits for commercial poultry producers, which are expected to remain in place even though the USDA hasn’t made a formal statement. They also discussed the avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) situation—five live and two killed commercial vaccines have been approved for import for one year, and NTF anticipates continued allowances. Addison emphasized the “three-legged stool” of animal health—animal health, labor, and policy—and noted Secretary Rollins’ continued involvement on Capitol Hill.
At the state level, Jill discussed Iowa’s recently passed $9.34 million budget. While the session prioritized school budgets, property tax reform, and agricultural support. The legislature saw 2,360 bills filed, 176 of which passed both chambers, during the ninth year of the Republican trifecta. Looking ahead, eminent domain will be a key issue. Jill encouraged constituents to engage with their representatives during their in-district time, as these interactions strengthen legislative support for agriculture. The National Turkey Federation will host its “Turkey Day on the Hill” this fall to connect farmers with lawmakers. Finally, Jill noted Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds’ announcement that she will not seek re-election, and discusses how she sees the Iowa capitol moving forward.
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