By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Randy Romanski attended the 2025 Winter Policy Conference in Washington D.C., organized by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), from February 24-27.
The annual event gathered agriculture leaders from across the United States to discuss critical industry issues.
During the conference, Romanski participated in policy discussions, engaged with federal agency leadership, and contributed to the NASDA business meeting. Key topics included food safety, land conservation, and international trade.
"Throughout the conference, NASDA members spoke about the importance of states receiving adequate federal funding to meet our co-regulatory responsibilities," Romanski stated. "It is critical that states receive cooperative agreement funding for grain inspection, meat inspection, and more."
Romanski co-sponsored a policy amendment supporting federal biofuel tax policies that prioritize domestic feedstocks.
Romanski also co-sponsored an action item urging Congress to retain the Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives in the upcoming Farm Bill with $36 million in annual funding.
"The DBI Initiatives are making a significant impact, supporting dairy businesses across the country by providing technical assistance and grant funding," Romanski explained. "Wisconsin is America’s Dairyland, and I hope the DBI Initiatives are included in a unified, fully funded Farm Bill."
The conference addressed the national response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI H5N1) in poultry and dairy cattle. NASDA members approved measures to ensure states have adequate resources for HPAI H5N1 response.
"I continue to advocate for additional resources for animal disease response on a state and federal level," Romanski added. "This conference provided a unique opportunity for state leaders to meet with federal officials to discuss the importance of communication and a coordinated response."
Additional approvals included restoring organic funding, investing in Local Food Purchase Assistance, and opposing decoupling nutrition spending from the Farm Bill.
Romanski was also elected Vice President of the Food Export Association of the Midwest USA, which facilitates trade between Midwestern food suppliers and global importers.
NASDA, a nonpartisan association representing all 50 states and four territories, continues to play a vital role in shaping agricultural policy.
Photo Credit: national-association-of-state-departments-of-agriculture
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy