Alabama Farmers Federation Nominations and USDA Warns of Job Cuts
From the Ag Information Network, this is your Agribusiness Update.
**Alabama farmers are encouraged to nominate research and
Extension personnel whose work tangibly impacted their farms for two awards from the Alabama Farmers Federation.
Nominations are due June 6.
Federation Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department
Director Mitt Walker says recent challenges have showcased the impact researchers and Extension professionals can have on Alabama farms and forestland.
Winners will be recognized in August during the Federation’s Farm & Land Conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
**USDA has warned its 100,000-plus employees that major staff cuts are coming, offices closed, and people will be forced to relocate to keep their jobs.
The President's executive order in February implementing the DOGE Initiative warned of more cuts to come.
While final plans are still under development, USDA aims to be transparent about what employees can expect.
USDA employees would get up to six months’ severance pay if they choose to quit.
**The House Ag Committee held a committee hearing recently and made it clear that Congress must reassert the connection between receiving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP benefits, and securing employment and long-term independence.
Despite repeated claims from Democrats that most SNAP recipients work, House Ag Republicans say the data tells a different story.
According to USDA’s own numbers, only 28% of nondisabled, childless adults aged 18–54 are employed while receiving benefits.
