New policy stances adopted: NASDA annual meeting held in Wyoming

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — At the 2023 National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Annual Meeting, NASDA members adopted several policies.

• Two policy items to encourage the development of comprehensive and reliable disaster assistance programs for agriculture by creating individualized program timelines and adequate insurance programs.

• NASDA members charged the organization to work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to allow flexible conservation program timelines.

• NASDA members passed a policy amendment stating existing gaps in insurance coverage and federal disaster relief programs leave farmers increasingly vulnerable to the growing number and severity of catastrophic natural disasters.

• NASDA members adopted policy to protect farmers’ right to farm.

• NASDA’s new policy supports laws that protect agricultural and forestry operations and facilities from nuisance lawsuits.

• Members advocated for standards that ensure clear and consistent labeling for cell-based meat products, also referred to as cultured meat.

• Members urged the establishment of regulatory frameworks for distinguished labeling of cell-based meat, poultry and seafood products and encouraged the USDA, Food Safety and Inspection Service and Food and Drug Administration to analyze the cellular and nutritional properties of these products and indicate the differences, via labeling, between cell-based and conventional products.

• NASDA members amended the organization’s policy to support increased investment in apprenticeships and educational programs and directed the organization to support federal funding for agricultural education and workforce development programs.

• One of NASDA’s new amendments for the organization specifically asks USDA to develop agricultural literacy resources for guidance counselors and other school professionals to help elementary and secondary school students discover career options in agriculture.