The USDA has pledged to support poultry producers affected by the ongoing avian influenza outbreak. This funding will help enhance biosecurity measures, provide financial assistance to farmers who have had to cull infected flocks, and support research into potential vaccines. The agency is also exploring strategies to stabilize egg prices as the outbreak continues to impact supply.
Iowa Senator Joni Ernst highlights Ag Secretary Rollins’s efforts to support poultry producers as they combat the challenges of avian influenza. She emphasizes the importance of USDA funding for biosecurity measures, financial relief for affected farmers, and vaccine research.
Senator Ernst praised newly appointed USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins for quickly stepping into her role and tackling major challenges head-on. She highlighted Rollins’ proactive approach in addressing the avian influenza outbreak and ensuring that critical support reaches affected poultry producers. Ernst commended her leadership and commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector from day one.
She emphasized the need to update indemnity payments for poultry producers to ensure consistency and fairness in the support they receive. She pointed out that outdated policies have led to discrepancies, making it harder for farmers to recover from losses. Ernst stressed the importance of adjusting these payments to better reflect the industry’s current needs.
Ernst highlighted that the biosecurity measures in the USDA’s effort will equip individual states with the best practices and resources to combat avian influenza. She emphasized that each state faces unique challenges, and this approach allows them to tailor their response to what works best for their producers. Ernst underscored the importance of flexibility in protecting poultry flocks across the country.
Ernst stressed the urgency of addressing avian influenza, noting that the virus has already crossed the species barrier multiple times, including cases in humans.
Senator Joni Ernst says she remains committed to ensuring poultry producers receive the support they need to combat avian influenza. By strengthening biosecurity measures and updating policies, the USDA aims to protect both the industry and consumers from the ongoing challenges of the outbreak.
