California Farm Bureau joined more than 500 groups in urging Congress to update the renewable fuel standard's definition of "woody biomass." The current definition is too narrow, limiting its use as feedstock and discouraging investment in forest health, wildfire resilience and rural economic growth.
The Assembly Insurance Committee reviewed the California Department of Insurance's sustainable insurance strategy and wildfire impacts. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara highlighted insurer expansion, $22.4 billion in claims paid, smoke damage concerns and Assembly Bill 1795 to set standards and tie rate approvals to coverage growth.
California Farm Bureau submitted comments to the California Public Utilities Commission on landline transition proposals, urging protections for 911 access, service reliability, infrastructure standards, customer notification and oversight. Farm Bureau is also part of a legislative coalition as related legislation is expected this year.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program, directing $1 billion in Farmer Bridge Assistance Program funds to eligible producers. Payments are based on 2025 planted acres, with reporting due March 13. Crop insurance linkage is not required.
Rep. G.T. Thompson, chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, released "Skinny" Farm Bill text, with markup expected this week. The bill boosts crop insurance, specialty crops, forestry and market access, and addresses Proposition 12 and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency pesticide preemption. Passage remains uncertain.
California Farm Bureau is litigating two cases over Central Coast Agricultural Order 4.0, challenging the adequacy of the economic analysis and defending the California State Water Resources Control Board's decision not to impose nitrogen limits. Opening briefs were filed Feb. 13, 2025. Hearings are expected in September.
The California State Water Resources Control Board's agricultural expert panel is reviewing nitrate impacts and potential statewide nitrogen limits. A draft report will be released for a 30-day comment period. Farmers are encouraged to engage. California Farm Bureau will join agricultural partners in submitting unified comments.
Contact
- Phone: (916) 561-5500
- Fax: (916) 561-4507
- Email: cfbf@cfbf.com
- 2600 River Plaza Dr.
- Sacramento, CA 95833
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