HOUSTON – At its recent Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) trade show, the association’s executive committee approved its 2022 policy priorities. The organization said it will emphasize strengthening the cattle industry's economic, environmental and social sustainability. 

“With the challenging year cattle producers have faced, NCBA is focused on strengthening our industry for the future,” said Don Schiefelbein, president-elect of NCBA. “By highlighting economic, environmental and social sustainability, we are addressing the long-term needs of the cattle industry and advancing policies that will contribute to business success, economic growth and respect for our way of life.”

Other policy priorities in the plan included improving market leverage and opportunities through increased access to market data and risk management tools for producers. 

The NCBA said it wants to secure the beef industry's future by protecting crucial tax provisions, limiting regulatory burdens on farms and ranches, and leveling the playing field for producers.

The organization also looks to boost the resiliency of the beef supply chain by addressing labor shortages, improving processing capacity, expanding technology and strengthening transportation.

The NCBA added that achieving key cattle industry priorities could happen in the 2023 Farm Bill.

“By working to protect the business environment, increase market transparency and improving the strength of the supply chain, NCBA's policy efforts will continue to enhance cattle and beef business sustainability in the near-term and for generations to come,” Schiefelbein said.