By Megan Webb, Ph.D. Contributing Editor
As spring unfolds, bringing fresh opportunities for growth, cattle producers have a unique moment to step into action. With 2025 shaping up to be a pivotal year, the time is now to advocate for the future of beef production. Policy changes on the horizon could significantly impact our industry, and ensuring our voices are heard in Washington, D.C., is more crucial than ever. One major opportunity to do this is through the 2025 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Legislative Conference, which I’ll be attending in Washington, D.C., April 28-30. The conference offers an excellent chance to connect with fellow producers, engage with key policy issues and speak directly with representatives about the challenges we face.
Every state plays a crucial role in the national cattle industry, and ensuring cattle producers’ concerns are heard is essential. The NCBA Legislative Conference serves as a powerful platform to ensure our priorities are addressed. Whether advocating for tax relief, pushing back against unnecessary regulations or securing market access, the conference is the ideal time to ensure lawmakers understand the issues that affect cattle operations across the country.
A Renewed Focus on Beef
One issue that will be a focus for many producers, myself included, is the growing trend of plant-based proteins, or what I refer to as “false proteins.” These products aim to replicate beef but fall short in terms of nutritional benefits. Beef provides essential nutrients – such as protein, iron, and zinc – that are not found in the same quantity or quality in these imitation products.
The challenge with false proteins is more than just misleading labels; it’s about limiting consumer choice. Consumers deserve clear, accurate information about the food they eat. As beef producers, it’s important to ensure that beef remains front and center as a key, nutritious protein source in American diets. The NCBA Legislative Conference is a perfect venue to push for policies that maintain beef’s rightful place as a staple in American households.
Tackling Regulatory Challenges
Another challenge facing cattle producers is the rising tide of regulations. Whether it’s climate policies, the Corporate Transparency Act or new reporting requirements, regulations are becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. For small family farms, these regulations add unnecessary strain, making it harder to operate efficiently and remain competitive.
One critical issue is the continuation of estate tax exemptions. If these exemptions expire in 2025, many farm families could face significant financial strain, risking their ability to pass down operations to the next generation. Estate taxes threaten the future of multigenerational farms and ranches.
A Unified Voice for Beef
The NCBA Legislative Conference isn’t just about meeting with lawmakers – it’s about uniting as an industry to ensure the long-term success of beef production. It provides a valuable opportunity to collaborate with other producers, share challenges and work toward common solutions. No matter the size of an operation, every producer plays a vital role in the broader success of the beef industry.
Trade is another crucial issue. Expanding trade opportunities and ensuring continued access to international markets will be essential as global demand for beef continues to rise. Advocating for these trade relationships at the NCBA Legislative Conference will help ensure U.S. beef remains a recognized and valued product worldwide.
Looking Ahead
As we head into 2025, there are many ways to stay engaged and advocate for policies that support beef production. Whether attending the NCBA Legislative Conference or connecting with others in the industry, each opportunity contributes to the broader goals of the beef community. The conference is an important opportunity to address the challenges we face, whether it’s protecting beef’s place in the American diet or fighting against regulations that limit our ability to operate efficiently.
The 2025 NCBA Legislative Conference is an invaluable chance to make sure the voices of cattle producers are heard. The future of the cattle industry depends on the actions we take today. By working together and focusing on the issues that matter most, we can ensure a thriving, sustainable future for beef production.
