April 27, 2026

Oil Corporations Attempt to Derail Legislation That Lowers Fuel Prices

The president of the National Corn Growers Association is criticizing several major energy companies for opposing legislation that would allow year-round sales of E15 fuel, a gasoline blend containing 15 percent ethanol. The proposal, which has the support of most of the petroleum industry, would also update parts of the Renewable Fuel Standard, including the small refinery exemption program. NCGA President Jed Bower, an Ohio farmer, accused certain corporations of improperly claiming exemptions meant for struggling refineries. “There is a tiny minority of major energy corporations that are masquerading as small refineries to get Renewable Fuel Standard exemptions they don’t need,” Bower said, adding that such actions harm farmers during difficult economic conditions. The association is backing a House Farm Bill amendment to remove seasonal restrictions on E15 sales. Bower also argued the delay keeps fuel prices higher, noting, “E15 saves consumers money at the pump.” The House is expected to consider the measure during the coming week.

***********************************************************************************
USDA Reorganizes FSIS and Establishes Food Safety Center in Iowa 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a major reorganization of the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), aiming to modernize operations and better align the agency with today’s agricultural landscape. Central to the plan is the creation of a National Food Safety Center in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as a hub for administrative, technical, and support functions. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the move will strengthen food safety nationwide. “This is about building a stronger, more resilient food safety system for the country,” Rollins said, and noted that the changes will help protect public health and support farmers. Officials say consolidating operations in Iowa and expanding scientific work in Georgia will improve efficiency and accountability. FSIS Administrator Justin Ransom noted the shift will better support frontline inspectors and enhance workforce training. The reorganization comes as USDA works to maintain high safety standards while adapting to evolving industry needs.

***********************************************************************************
Revised Regulation Supports More Biodiesel Demand

Clean Fuels Alliance America applauded the approval of the latest revision to ASTM D396, the standard specification for fuel oils. It now includes new grades for biodiesel blends containing 21 percent to 50 percent biodiesel by volume. The updated heating oil specification marks a major milestone for the clean fuels industry and supports the expanded use of higher biodiesel blends in heating applications. The revision provides users and consumers of Bioheat fuel with clear guidance on fuel properties and procedures needed to deliver the same or improved performance as fuels currently in use. “In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states where Bioheat fuel adoption continues to grow, the updated standards provide greater confidence in the performance, reliability, and emissions benefits of blends up to B50,” said Scott Fenwick, the technical director at Clean Fuels. The National Oilheat Research Alliance called this another step forward in providing consumers with a high-quality renewable energy source. 

***********************************************************************************
Sugar Growers Pick a New CEO

The American Sugarbeet Growers Association has named Zack Clark as its next CEO and executive vice president following a competitive national search. Clark, who currently serves as vice president of government affairs, will assume the role on September 8, 2026. Clark joined the association in 2019 and previously held positions with the National Farmers Union, as well as in the U.S. House and Senate. He holds degrees from the University of Connecticut and the National Defense University. ASGA President Clint Hagen said Clark steps into the role during a difficult period for the industry. “There are tremendous challenges that the sugar industry currently faces,” Hagen said, citing weather, low prices, and trade pressures. Outgoing CEO Luther Markwart praised Clark’s leadership and commitment to growers, saying, “It’s clear Zack greatly respects the American sugarbeet grower.” Markwart will retire at the end of the year.

***********************************************************************************
Milk Producers Comment on the Dairy Pride Act  

A dairy industry group is calling on federal regulators to tighten enforcement of labeling rules for plant-based products, arguing current policies risk misleading consumers and harming public health. In a statement, advocates from the National Milk Producers Federation said the Food and Drug Administration has failed to uphold standards that define traditional dairy products, allowing alternatives to use terms like milk, cheese, and yogurt despite significant nutritional differences. They argue dairy foods provide essential nutrients, including calcium, potassium, and vitamin D, that many substitutes lack. “FDA’s continued failure to enforce its own rules on the proper labeling of plant-based alternative products is a public health problem, plain and simple,” the group said. Supporters are backing the DAIRY PRIDE Act, which would require stricter enforcement of existing standards of identity. The legislation is intended to ensure clearer labeling and prevent consumer confusion at grocery stores.

***********************************************************************************
Bill Introduced to Add Hot Rotisserie Chicken in SNAP

A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced legislation that would allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to purchase hot rotisserie chicken with their benefits. The Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act, introduced by Sens. Jim Justice (D-WV), John Fetterman (D-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Michael Bennet (D-CO), would amend current rules that prohibit the purchase of most hot foods. A companion bill has also been introduced in the House by Rep. Rick Crawford (R-AR). The proposal would not expand SNAP funding or eligibility and applies only to hot rotisserie chicken, not all prepared foods. National Chicken Council President Harrison Kircher called the bill a practical fix to an outdated rule. “Right now, a SNAP family can buy a cold rotisserie chicken — but the moment it’s hot, it’s off limits,” Kircher said. Supporters say the change would reduce waste, lower costs for retailers, and provide families access to an affordable, high-protein meal.

***********************************************************************************