News

U.S. Senate confirms secretaries at USDA, Health and Human Services

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Brooke Rollins as the secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead Department of Health and Human Services.

Agriculture organizations say there’s a lot of work ahead at USDA now that Rollins has been confirmed.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall says he is confident Rollins will keep USDA’s contractual promises with farmers, ensure there’s adequate staffing for essential functions of USDA agencies and work with Congress to pass a farm bill.

National Farmers Union Rob Larew says USDA must serve farmers effectively and fairly and the organization will work with Rollins to ensure fairness in the marketplace, expanding conservation programs to improve soil health and reduce input costs.

Work at the two agencies intersect in food safety and the development and implementation of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. New guidelines are expected this year.  The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s Scientific Report has been posted for public comment, following the comment period, it will be used by the Departments to develop the final DGA. 

The International Fresh Produce Association says they look forward to working with Secretary Kennedy to integrate produce prescriptions in healthcare, enhance clarity in nutrition labeling and improve public health.