Welcome to USDA Now You Know, your source for the latest developments from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I'm your host, Sarah Johnson.

Our top story this week: USDA Invests $1 Billion to Combat Avian Flu and Reduce Egg Prices. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced a comprehensive strategy to curb highly pathogenic avian influenza, protect the U.S. poultry industry, and lower egg prices for consumers.

The five-pronged approach includes $500 million for biosecurity measures, $400 million in financial relief for affected farmers, and $100 million for vaccine research. Secretary Rollins stated, "American farmers need relief, and American consumers need affordable food. To every family struggling to buy eggs: We hear you, we're fighting for you, and help is on the way."

This initiative comes as the USDA faces significant challenges. Secretary Rollins recently described the current state of U.S. farming as one of the worst in 50 years, citing a $45.5 billion trade deficit and a 30% increase in production costs over the last year.

In response, the department is taking swift action. Rollins vowed to operate at "Trump speed" to deliver aid and secure better trade deals for American farmers. This includes distributing nearly $3 billion in previously approved financial aid by March 21.

The USDA is also addressing other pressing issues. Enrollment periods for key safety-net programs have been announced. Producers can enroll in the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs from January 21 to April 15, and in Dairy Margin Coverage from January 29 to March 31.

These programs provide vital economic protection for most American farms. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux emphasized, "Our safety-net programs provide critical financial protections against commodity market volatilities for many American farmers, so don't delay enrollment."

Looking ahead, the USDA is preparing for potential changes in its oversight roles. Proposed legislative changes aim to expand the membership of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to include the USDA, enhancing U.S. government oversight.

The department is also seeking public input on potential updates to federal dietary guidelines. Stakeholders have until February 10, 2025, to submit comments on the report issued by the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee.

As we wrap up, here are some key dates to remember:
- March 21: Deadline for distribution of previously approved financial aid
- March 31: Enrollment deadline for Dairy Margin Coverage
- April 15: Enrollment deadline for Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs

For more information on these developments and how they might affect you, visit usda.gov. And remember, your voice matters – if you have thoughts on the dietary guidelines, make sure to submit your comments before February 10.

That's all for this week's USDA Now You Know. I'm Sarah Johnson, thanks for listening.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI