NCBA file photo
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and its nationwide network of state affiliates, concluded its 2026 Legislative Conference this week, bringing together cattle producers from across the country to advocate for policy solutions that strengthen America’s cattle industry and rural communities. Throughout the conference, producers met with federal officials and engaged directly with policymakers on Capitol Hill to ensure the voice of cattle producers is heard in Washington.
“NCBA’s Legislative Conference is where grassroots policy meets action,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver, a Virginia cattle producer. “Our members traveled to Washington to share real-world perspectives from their operations and reinforce why strong, commonsense policies are essential to keeping family farms and ranches viable for the next generation. From protecting animal health to advancing regulatory reform, NCBA members are leading the charge on behalf of the entire cattle industry.”
During their time in Washington, NCBA members emphasized several top policy priorities, including:
- Delisting the gray wolf and passing the Pet and Livestock Protection Act
- Advancing passage of a new Farm Bill
- Supporting funding for research, management, and control of the Longhorned tick and the diseases it carries
In addition to Capitol Hill meetings, NCBA members participated in discussions with key federal agencies. Producers met with officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including the Food Safety and Inspection Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and Agricultural Marketing Service, as well as representatives from the Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine and the Environmental Protection Agency.
NCBA news release
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