Texas Agriculture Commissioner Advocates for Domestic Beef Policy to Support Ranchers

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has proposed a robust 'America First' beef policy to address the declining U.S. cattle herd, which is at its lowest in over 75 years. He attributes this decline to ongoing drought and unfavorable federal trade agreements, warning that increased beef imports from countries like Argentina could harm local producers. Miller emphasizes the need for a federal heifer retention tax credit and expanded drought relief to support ranchers. He aims to promote this policy as Congress prepares the next Farm Bill, urging lawmakers to focus on strengthening domestic beef production and food security.

Key Details: • Miller's proposal includes a federal heifer retention tax credit for ranchers. • The 100,000 metric ton beef import agreement with Argentina is less than 1% of the U.S. beef economy. • Miller plans to advocate for this policy during the next Farm Bill discussions.