CMV–22 Reliability and Readiness Enhancement Act

Worked on efforts to support passage of "farm bill 2.0". Supported efforts for bridge payments/economic assistance. Worked on ensuring USDA released the $10 billion in economic assistance and $20.8 billion in disaster relief assistance from H.R.10545 (FY25 December 2024 CR). Informed Congressional delegation, White House Office of Public Liaison, and USDA of PFB's 2025 priorities (animal health, dairy, energy, environment/regulatory reform, farm bill (including Prop 12), labor, transportation, and wildlife). Supported compensation programs for animal health diseases impacting livestock and poultry such as HPAI. Advocated for science-based research when making decisions in the MAHA space. Monitored S.98, the Agriculture Innovation Act, which aims to improve USDA data collection and research on conservation practices to better inform farmers about which practices reduce risk and increase profitability, enhance crop yields, and improve soil health. Promoted our recommendations for the State FSA Committee. SUPPORTED THE FOLLOWING BILLS: - H.R. 7567 otherwise known as "farm bill 2.0" - H.R. 4708, the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, which would make competitive grants available for research projects related to the mitigation of the Spotted Lanternfly. - S.581/H.R.295, the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act, which would mandate cost and yield surveying of processors to participate in the NDPSR survey every two years. - S.741/H.R.1613, the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act, which would require a USDA study on providing crop insurance for mushroom farmers. - S.1073/H.R.2117, the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which would help our next generation of farmers by aligning the definition of Beginning Farmers to match that of other USDA programs - 10 crop years or less instead of the status quo of 5 crop years or less. - S.156/H.R.575, the Increased TSP Access Act, which would help streamline the technical service provider (TSP) certification at NRCS and leverage the programs and technical expertise of NRCS to make conservation programs available to more farmers and on more land. - S.29 / H.R.139, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight savings time permanent. - S.469/H.R.1131, the Farmers First Act, which would reauthorize and increase funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to $15 million annually for five years. - S.420/H.R.985, the Dairy Business Innovation Act, which would increase the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBII) program's funding from the current $20 million to $36 million. - H.R.4782, the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Act, which would allow states, through USDA, to establish cooperative agreements connecting local farmers and producers with local food distribution organizations. ' - S.1693/H.R.3283, the Federal Agriculture Risk Management Enhancement and Resilience (FARMER) Act, which would strengthen the agricultural safety net by increasing premium support for higher levels of crop insurance coverage, making it more affordable, and by allowing farmers to participate in both enhanced crop insurance and other commodity programs like Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC).

Client expense: $10,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), Executive Office of the President (EOP), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Retirement issues, Secure 2.0 implementation Issues related to implementation of reconciliation HIRE Act, S.2025

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $60,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Treasury, Dept of

Supported efforts for bridge payments/economic assistance. Worked on efforts to support introduction and passage of "farm bill 2.0". Worked on ensuring USDA released the $10 billion in economic assistance and $20.8 billion in disaster relief assistance from H.R.10545 (FY25 December 2024 CR). Informed Congressional delegation, White House Office of Public Liaison, and USDA of PFB's 2025 priorities (animal health, dairy, energy, environment/regulatory reform, farm bill (including Prop 12), labor, transportation, and wildlife). Supported compensation programs for animal health diseases impacting livestock and poultry such as HPAI. Advocated for science-based research when making decisions in the MAHA space. Monitored S.98, the Agriculture Innovation Act, which aims to improve USDA data collection and research on conservation practices to better inform farmers about which practices reduce risk and increase profitability, enhance crop yields, and improve soil health. Promoted our recommendations for the State FSA Committee. SUPPORTED THE FOLLOWING BILLS: - H.R. 4708, the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, which would make competitive grants available for research projects related to the mitigation of the Spotted Lanternfly. - S.581/H.R.295, the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act, which would mandate cost and yield surveying of processors to participate in the NDPSR survey every two years. - S.741/H.R.1613, the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act, which would require a USDA study on providing crop insurance for mushroom farmers. - S.1073/H.R.2117, the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which would help our next generation of farmers by aligning the definition of Beginning Farmers to match that of other USDA programs - 10 crop years or less instead of the status quo of 5 crop years or less. - S.156/H.R.575, the Increased TSP Access Act, which would help streamline the technical service provider (TSP) certification at NRCS and leverage the programs and technical expertise of NRCS to make conservation programs available to more farmers and on more land. - S.29 / H.R.139, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight savings time permanent. - S.469/H.R.1131, the Farmers First Act, which would reauthorize and increase funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to $15 million annually for five years. - S.420/H.R.985, the Dairy Business Innovation Act, which would increase the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBII) program's funding from the current $20 million to $36 million. - H.R.4782, the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Act, which would allow states, through USDA, to establish cooperative agreements connecting local farmers and producers with local food distribution organizations. ' - S.1693/H.R.3283, the Federal Agriculture Risk Management Enhancement and Resilience (FARMER) Act, which would strengthen the agricultural safety net by increasing premium support for higher levels of crop insurance coverage, making it more affordable, and by allowing farmers to participate in both enhanced crop insurance and other commodity programs like Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC).

General discussions/no legislation on issues related to Alaska and L48 oil and gas development on federal lands, permitting, and land access/lease sales General discussions about issues related to the ongoing development of ConocoPhillips' Willow project in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A) Opposition to the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) 2024 Final Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska Rule, and support for rescission of that rule/support for BLM's 2025 proposed rule (now finalized) titled Rescission of the Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska Regulations Discussions related to ConocoPhillips' planned winter 2025-2026 NPR-A exploration and seismic program

Client expense: $2,630,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Interior, Dept of (DOI), SENATE

Retirement issues, Secure 2.0 implementation Issues related to implementation of reconciliation HIRE Act, S.2025

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $60,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Treasury, Dept of

Support for the inclusion of higher education priorities and funding including efforts to support the Pell Grant, support for additional funding for federal research and research infrastructure, support for workforce and campus economic development initiatives, student mental health and academic success priorities throughout the FY26 budget and appropriations process. Continued support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including sustained funding for: the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve program. Concern with proposed cuts to Facilities and Administrative Costs across federal research agencies. Support for federal financial aid programs including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program in FY26 appropriations legislation. Support for nursing rehabilitation gym and lab space in FY26 Appropriations. Concerns with proposed cuts to research agencies, grantmaking, and federal financial aid proposed in the President's FY26 Budget Request. Continued concerns with H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and provisions related to higher education financing, accountability, and aid. Concerns with H.R. 6422 - American Water Stewardship Act and support for H.R. 3593/S.1874 - Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2025.

Client expense: $92,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act and student federal financial aid including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for efforts related to freedom of expression and civil dialogue on college campuses. Concerns related to potential impacts to student financial aid and to other operational matters resulting from ongoing efforts to close the Department of Education, the agency's reduction in force, and lapse in appropriations. Support for graduate education and concerns with changes stemming from H.R.1 related to loan caps, the elimination of grad plus loans, and the definition of professional degrees. Concerns with education processing delays due to the lapse in appropriations.

Client expense: $92,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Worked on efforts to support introduction and passage of "farm bill 2.0". Worked on ensuring USDA released the $10 billion in economic assistance and $20.8 billion in disaster relief assistance from H.R.10545 (FY25 December 2024 CR). Informed Congressional delegation, White House Office of Public Liaison, and USDA of PFB's 2025 priorities (animal health, dairy, energy, environment/regulatory reform, farm bill (including Prop 12), labor, transportation, and wildlife). Supported compensation programs for animal health diseases impacting livestock and poultry such as HPAI. Advocated for science-based research when making decisions in the MAHA space. Monitored S.98, the Agriculture Innovation Act, which aims to improve USDA data collection and research on conservation practices to better inform farmers about which practices reduce risk and increase profitability, enhance crop yields, and improve soil health. Promoted our recommendations for the State FSA Committee. SUPPORTED THE FOLLOWING BILLS: - H.R. 4708, the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, which would make competitive grants available for research projects related to the mitigation of the Spotted Lanternfly. - S.581/H.R.295, the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act, which would mandate cost and yield surveying of processors to participate in the NDPSR survey every two years. - S.741/H.R.1613, the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act, which would require a USDA study on providing crop insurance for mushroom farmers. - S.1073/H.R.2117, the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which would help our next generation of farmers by aligning the definition of Beginning Farmers to match that of other USDA programs - 10 crop years or less instead of the status quo of 5 crop years or less. - S.156/H.R.575, the Increased TSP Access Act, which would help streamline the technical service provider (TSP) certification at NRCS and leverage the programs and technical expertise of NRCS to make conservation programs available to more farmers and on more land. - S.29 / H.R.139, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight savings time permanent. - S.469/H.R.1131, the Farmers First Act, which would reauthorize and increase funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to $15 million annually for five years. - S.420/H.R.985, the Dairy Business Innovation Act, which would increase the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBII) program's funding from the current $20 million to $36 million. - H.R.4782, the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Act, which would allow states, through USDA, to establish cooperative agreements connecting local farmers and producers with local food distribution organizations. ' - S.1693/H.R.3283, the Federal Agriculture Risk Management Enhancement and Resilience (FARMER) Act, which would strengthen the agricultural safety net by increasing premium support for higher levels of crop insurance coverage, making it more affordable, and by allowing farmers to participate in both enhanced crop insurance and other commodity programs like Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC). OPPOSED THE FOLLOWING: - Amendment 2527 (Grassley) during the OBBBA debate, which would have weakened farmers' safety nets.

Opposition to the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) 2024 Final Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska Rule, and support for rescinding that rule/support for BLM's 2025 proposed rule titled "Rescission of the Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska Regulations." General discussions/no legislation on issues related to Alaska and L48 oil and gas development on federal lands, permitting, and land access/lease sales. General discussions about issues related to the ongoing development of ConocoPhillips' Willow project in the NPR-A. Support for H.R. 677, the Expedited Appeals Review Act, that would establish a process to expedite appeals before the Department of the Interior's Board of Land Appeals.

Client expense: $600,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Interior, Dept of (DOI), SENATE, White House Office

Retirement issues, Secure 2.0 implementation Issues related to reconciliation HIRE Act, S.2025

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $60,000

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Treasury, Dept of

Support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act and student federal financial aid including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for efforts related to freedom of expression and civil dialogue on college campuses. Concerns related to potential impacts to student financial aid and to other operational matters resulting from ongoing efforts to close the Department of Education, the agency's reduction in force, and any lapse in appropriations.

Client expense: $110,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Support for the inclusion of higher education priorities and funding including efforts to support the Pell Grant, support for additional funding for federal research and research infrastructure, support for workforce and campus economic development initiatives, student mental health and academic success priorities throughout the FY26 budget and appropriations process. Continued support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including sustained funding for: the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve program. Concern with proposed cuts to Facilities and Administrative Costs across federal research agencies. Support for federal financial aid programs including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program in FY26 appropriations legislation. Support for nursing rehabilitation gym and lab space, entrepreneur support, and AI and cybersecurity research in FY26 Appropriations. Support for energy and water sciences research at the Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin, including PFAS research. Support for the Connected Systems Institute. Support for the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS)Program. Concerns with cuts to research agencies and federal financial aid proposed in the President's FY26 Budget Request. Continued concerns with H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and provisions related to higher education financing, accountability, and aid, and H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025.

Client expense: $110,000 · Firm income: Not reported

- Signed on to a letter led by the Consortium of Constituents with Disabilities' Housing Task Force providing comments on the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development's 2025 Interim Final Rule on Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH); - Joined a letter led by the National Fair Housing Alliance providing comments on the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development's 2025 Interim Final Rule on Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH); - Endorsed the Housing not Handcuffs bill which would prohibit federal agencies from directly or indirectly arresting, fining, or otherwise criminalizing homeless persons on federal lands.

Client expense: $20,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Housing & Urban Development, Dept of (HUD)

Supported farm bill reauthorization with a focus on risk management programs in Title I and crop insurance. Asked USDA to release the $10 billion in economic assistance and $20.8 billion in disaster relief assistance from H.R.10545 (FY25 December 2024 CR). Informed Congressional delegation, White House Office of Public Liaison, and USDA of PFB's 2025 priorities (animal health, dairy, energy, environment/regulatory reform, farm bill (including Prop 12), labor, transportation, and wildlife). Supported compensation programs for animal health diseases impacting livestock and poultry such as HPAI. Concerns regarding the Local Food Purchasing Assistance (LFPA) program tranche 3 funding cut. Worked with USDA, PDA, and House Ag Committee on a long-term solution for reauthorizing LFPA. Concerns regarding NASS' method for data collection of grapes. Monitored S.98, the Agriculture Innovation Act, which aims to improve USDA data collection and research on conservation practices to better inform farmers about which practices reduce risk and increase profitability, enhance crop yields, and improve soil health. SUPPORTED THE FOLLOWING BILLS: - S.910, the Farm Ownership Improvement Act, which would require USDA to implement a pre-qualification or pre-approval process for all farmers and ranchers seeking FSA Direct Farm Ownership loans. - S.581/H.R.295, the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act, which would mandate cost and yield surveying of processors to participate in the NDPSR survey every two years. - S.741/H.R.1613, the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act, which would require a USDA study on providing crop insurance for mushroom farmers. - S.1073/H.R.2117, the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which would help our next generation of farmers by aligning the definition of Beginning Farmers to match that of other USDA programs - 10 crop years or less instead of the status quo of 5 crop years or less. - S.156/H.R.575, the Increased TSP Access Act, which would help streamline the technical service provider (TSP) certification at NRCS and leverage the programs and technical expertise of NRCS to make conservation programs available to more farmers and on more land. - S.29 / H.R.139, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight savings time permanent. - S.469/H.R.1131, the Farmers First Act, which would reauthorize and increase funding for the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) to $15 million annually for five years. - S.420/H.R.985, the Dairy Business Innovation Act, which would increase the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives (DBII) program's funding from the current $20 million to $36 million. OPPOSED THE FOLLOWING: - Section 112032 (Tobacco duty drawback provision) in H.R.1 - House Ways and Means markup

Educational Choice for Children Act; Secretary's 2025-2026 Discretionary Priorities

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Educational Choice for Children Act; Secretary's 2025-2026 Discretionary Priorities

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Educational Choice for Children Act; Secretary's 2025-2026 Discretionary Priorities

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Support for the inclusion of higher education priorities and funding including efforts to support the Pell Grant, support for additional funding for federal research and research infrastructure, support for workforce and campus economic development initiatives, student mental health and academic success priorities throughout the FY26 budget and appropriations process. Continued support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including sustained funding for: the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve program, and the Head Start Program. Concern with proposed cuts to Facilities and Administrative Costs across federal research agencies. Support for federal financial aid programs including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program in FY26 appropriations legislation. Support for nursing rehabilitation gym and lab space, entrepreneur support, and AI research in FY26 Appropriations. Concerns with cuts to research agencies and federal financial aid proposed in the President's FY26 Budget Request. Concerns with H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and provisions related to higher education financing, accountability, and aid, and H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025.

Client expense: $104,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act and student federal financial aid including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for efforts related to freedom of expression and civil dialogue on college campuses. Continued concerns with H.R.6951 - College Cost Reduction Act and possible inclusion in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Concerns with H.R.1048 - DETERRENT Act. Concerns related to potential impacts to student financial aid and to other operational matters resulting from ongoing efforts to close the Department of Education and the agency's reduction in force.

Client expense: $104,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

FARM BILL: - Urged House and Senate Members to introduce text and pass a farm bill ASAP. - Worked with AFBF on providing intel for farm bill by listening to legislator's asks in the next farm bill. - Met with PA delegation's offices to discuss farm bill priorities (strong risk management programs, keeping nutrition programs in the farm bill, improving rural development resources such as broadband and precision ag technologies, increasing funding for land-grant universities' research facilities, increasing access to rural childcare, asking for legislative fix to Prop 12, among many other initiatives) in farm bill. See Section 24 - Trade - of this report for information on lobbying efforts for Prop 12. - Attended GT's Farm Bill Listening Session at Farm Show - Attended GT and RM Craig's Farm Bill Listening Session at AFBF Convention - Met with PSU Leadership to discuss the importance of Title X (Research) funding in the farm bill for land grant universities' research facilities. ASKED TO SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING: - Reintroduction of the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act, which would strengthen USDA's BioPreferred Program. This program increases market access for bio-based products and ensures America maintains its status as the worlds leader in biomanufacturing. - S.910, the Farm Ownership Improvement Act, which would require USDA to implement a pre-qualification or pre-approval process for all farmers and ranchers seeking FSA Direct Farm Ownership loans. - Reintroduction of the Specialty Crop Security Act, which would increase USDA's Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) program authorization from $85 to $100 million per year and expand opportunities for specialty crop stakeholders to provide input into how program funding is used by state departments of agriculture. - S.581/H.R.295, the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act, which would mandate cost and yield surveying of processors to participate in the NDPSR survey every two years. - Reintroduction of the the Industrial Hemp Act, which would exempt farmers exclusively growing industrial hemp from the burdensome background checks and costly sampling and testing protocols required for farmers growing cannabinoid hemp like that used in the extraction of CBD. - Reintroduction of the the Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act, which would direct USDA to authorize and prioritize projects that address the availability, quality, and cost of childcare in agricultural and rural communities. - Reintroduction of the the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, which would designate spotted lanternflies as a high priority pest under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to direct more federal research dollars to combat these devastating insects. - S.741/H.R.1613, the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act, which would require a USDA study on providing crop insurance for mushroom farmers. - S.1073/H.R.2117, the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which would help our next generation of farmers by aligning the definition of Beginning Farmers to match that of other USDA programs - 10 crop years or less instead of the status quo of 5 crop years or less. - S.156/H.R.575, the Increased TSP Access Act, which would help streamline the technical service provider (TSP) certification at NRCS and leverage the programs and technical expertise of NRCS to make conservation programs available to more farmers and on more land. - Reintroduction of the the GusNIP Expansion Act, which would enhance and expand the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP), which awards competitive grant funding to nonprofit organizations and government agencies for projects that provide incentives to income-eligible consumers to increase their purchase of fruits and vegetables. NEUTRAL/MONITORED BUT NOT LOBBIED BILLS: - Reintroduction of the Farm Risk Abatement and Mitigation Election (FRAME) Act, which would establish tax-deferred farm savings accounts that allows farmers to independently prepare for and mitigate the financial impact of disasters. - Reintroduction of the Save Our Small Farms Act, which would provide a safety net by expanding the number of farms eligible to purchase crop insurance, lower coverage costs for small farms, and direct USDA to develop more responsive coverage options for farmers during extreme weather. - Reintroduction of the Fair Credit for Farmers Act, which aims to improve farmers' access to credit from the Farm Service Agency by increasing accountability, offering more flexible terms, and establishing stronger borrower protections. - S.838/H.R.1822, the ACRE Act, which would exclude from the gross income of certain financial lending institutions, for income tax purposes, interest received on loans secured by rural or agricultural real estate. - H.R.2203, the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act, which would would amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to establish a new category of animal food additives. - S.1050, the Forest Conservation Easement Program (FCEP) Act, which would prevent the conversion of forests into non-forest areas by authorizing funding to purchase development rights from willing private landowners. - H.R.2253, the Puppy Protection Act, which would require USDA to expand standards that govern the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of animals to include new requirements for commercial dog dealers. ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE / DISASTER RELIEF FUNDS: - Advocated for USDA to release the $10 billion in economic assistance and $20.8 billion in disaster relief assistance from H.R.10545 (FY25 December 2024 CR). - Outreach to inform PFB members about the release of economic assistance funds under the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP). - Listened to stakeholder webinars to learn more about ECAP. - Thanked USDA for releasing the economic assistance funds by the March 19 deadline. - Call with State Farm Bureaus to discuss how we would like the disaster relief funds to be distributed to give feedback to USDA. OTHER: - Attended and advocated for priorities such as whole milk in schools, economic assistance and disaster relief funds, farm bill, reinstating funds for the LFPA program, HPAI, labor, and trade during Secretary Rollins visit to Lebanon, PA. - Assisted USDA in the planning and execution of a roundtable with Secretary Rollins and regional Farm Bureau members to discuss HPAI, trade, labor, and other pressing agricultural issues. - Signed onto coalition letter supporting Stephen Vaden as the Deputy Secretary of USDA. - Informed PA House and Senate offices of PFB's 2025 priorities (animal health, dairy, energy, environment/regulatory reform, farm bill (including Prop 12), labor, transportation, and wildlife). - Recommended Michael Cabell of Luzerne County for PA's USDA Rural Development Director. - Recommended Michael Kerr of Clearfield County PA's USDA FSA Executive Director. Originally, advocated for Harrison Frantz of Franklin County for FSA State Executive Director, but he had to withdraw his name for personal reasons. - Networked and discussed PFB's priorities with legislators and their staff at Farm Show. - Reviewed USDA's proposed final decision for the Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMOs)(Docket #: AMS-DA-23-0031) and emailed PA House and Senate Members that PFB's position is the same as it was in the recommended decision. Specifically, supported a switchback either to the higher of in Class I milk. Additionally, asked Congress Members to support requiring mandatory audited surveying for make allowance changes in the FMMOs. - Worked with Rep. Kelly's office on FWS' proposal to take land via eminent domain in PA-16. - Provided PFB member with talking points for Rep. Houlahan's agriculture forum.

FARM BILL: - Urged House and Senate Members to introduce text and pass a farm bill ASAP. - Worked with AFBF on providing intel for farm bill by listening to legislator's asks in the next farm bill. - Met with PA delegation's offices to discuss farm bill priorities (strong risk management programs, keeping nutrition programs in the farm bill, improving rural development resources such as broadband and precision ag technologies, increasing funding for land-grant universities' research facilities, increasing access to rural childcare, asking for legislative fix to Prop 12, among many other initiatives) in farm bill. See Section 24 - Trade - of this report for information on lobbying efforts for Prop 12. - Attended GT's Farm Bill Listening Session at Farm Show - Attended GT and RM Craig's Farm Bill Listening Session at AFBF Convention - Met with PSU Leadership to discuss the importance of Title X (Research) funding in the farm bill for land grant universities' research facilities. ASKED TO SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING: - Reintroduction of the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act, which would strengthen USDA's BioPreferred Program. This program increases market access for bio-based products and ensures America maintains its status as the worlds leader in biomanufacturing. - S.910, the Farm Ownership Improvement Act, which would require USDA to implement a pre-qualification or pre-approval process for all farmers and ranchers seeking FSA Direct Farm Ownership loans. - Reintroduction of the Specialty Crop Security Act, which would increase USDA's Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) program authorization from $85 to $100 million per year and expand opportunities for specialty crop stakeholders to provide input into how program funding is used by state departments of agriculture. - S.581/H.R.295, the Fair Milk Pricing for Farmers Act, which would mandate cost and yield surveying of processors to participate in the NDPSR survey every two years. - Reintroduction of the the Industrial Hemp Act, which would exempt farmers exclusively growing industrial hemp from the burdensome background checks and costly sampling and testing protocols required for farmers growing cannabinoid hemp like that used in the extraction of CBD. - Reintroduction of the the Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act, which would direct USDA to authorize and prioritize projects that address the availability, quality, and cost of childcare in agricultural and rural communities. - Reintroduction of the the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, which would designate spotted lanternflies as a high priority pest under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to direct more federal research dollars to combat these devastating insects. - S.741/H.R.1613, the Protecting Mushroom Farmers Act, which would require a USDA study on providing crop insurance for mushroom farmers. - S.1073/H.R.2117, the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which would help our next generation of farmers by aligning the definition of Beginning Farmers to match that of other USDA programs - 10 crop years or less instead of the status quo of 5 crop years or less. - S.156/H.R.575, the Increased TSP Access Act, which would help streamline the technical service provider (TSP) certification at NRCS and leverage the programs and technical expertise of NRCS to make conservation programs available to more farmers and on more land. - Reintroduction of the the GusNIP Expansion Act, which would enhance and expand the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP), which awards competitive grant funding to nonprofit organizations and government agencies for projects that provide incentives to income-eligible consumers to increase their purchase of fruits and vegetables. NEUTRAL/MONITORED BUT NOT LOBBIED BILLS: - Reintroduction of the Farm Risk Abatement and Mitigation Election (FRAME) Act, which would establish tax-deferred farm savings accounts that allows farmers to independently prepare for and mitigate the financial impact of disasters. - Reintroduction of the Save Our Small Farms Act, which would provide a safety net by expanding the number of farms eligible to purchase crop insurance, lower coverage costs for small farms, and direct USDA to develop more responsive coverage options for farmers during extreme weather. - Reintroduction of the Fair Credit for Farmers Act, which aims to improve farmers' access to credit from the Farm Service Agency by increasing accountability, offering more flexible terms, and establishing stronger borrower protections. - S.838/H.R.1822, the ACRE Act, which would exclude from the gross income of certain financial lending institutions, for income tax purposes, interest received on loans secured by rural or agricultural real estate. - H.R.2203, the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act, which would would amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to establish a new category of animal food additives. - S.1050, the Forest Conservation Easement Program (FCEP) Act, which would prevent the conversion of forests into non-forest areas by authorizing funding to purchase development rights from willing private landowners. - H.R.2253, the Puppy Protection Act, which would require USDA to expand standards that govern the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of animals to include new requirements for commercial dog dealers. ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE / DISASTER RELIEF FUNDS: - Advocated for USDA to release the $10 billion in economic assistance and $20.8 billion in disaster relief assistance from H.R.10545 (FY25 December 2024 CR). - Outreach to inform PFB members about the release of economic assistance funds under the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP). - Listened to stakeholder webinars to learn more about ECAP. - Thanked USDA for releasing the economic assistance funds by the March 19 deadline. - Call with State Farm Bureaus to discuss how we would like the disaster relief funds to be distributed to give feedback to USDA. OTHER: - Attended and advocated for priorities such as whole milk in schools, economic assistance and disaster relief funds, farm bill, reinstating funds for the LFPA program, HPAI, labor, and trade during Secretary Rollins visit to Lebanon, PA. - Assisted USDA in the planning and execution of a roundtable with Secretary Rollins and regional Farm Bureau members to discuss HPAI, trade, labor, and other pressing agricultural issues. - Signed onto coalition letter supporting Stephen Vaden as the Deputy Secretary of USDA. - Informed PA House and Senate offices of PFB's 2025 priorities (animal health, dairy, energy, environment/regulatory reform, farm bill (including Prop 12), labor, transportation, and wildlife). - Recommended Michael Cabell of Luzerne County for PA's USDA Rural Development Director. - Recommended Michael Kerr of Clearfield County PA's USDA FSA Executive Director. Originally, advocated for Harrison Frantz of Franklin County for FSA State Executive Director, but he had to withdraw his name for personal reasons. - Networked and discussed PFB's priorities with legislators and their staff at Farm Show. - Reviewed USDA's proposed final decision for the Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMOs)(Docket #: AMS-DA-23-0031) and emailed PA House and Senate Members that PFB's position is the same as it was in the recommended decision. Specifically, supported a switchback either to the higher of in Class I milk. Additionally, asked Congress Members to support requiring mandatory audited surveying for make allowance changes in the FMMOs. - Worked with Rep. Kelly's office on FWS' proposal to take land via eminent domain in PA-16. - Provided PFB member with talking points for Rep. Houlahan's agriculture forum.

Treasury transfer of "customs revenue function" to DHS (T.D. 100-2); CBP NPRM on Entry on Low-Value Shipments (Docket No. USCBP-2025-0002); CBP NPRM on Trade and National Security Actions on Entry on Low-Value Shipments (Docket No. USCBP-2025-0003); American Trade Negotiation Priorities (House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Hearing on March 25, 2025); President's 2025 Trade Policy Agenda (Senate Finance Committee Hearing on April 8, 2025).

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Treasury, Dept of, U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Support for the inclusion of higher education priorities and funding including efforts to expand the Pell Grant and increase the federal award amount, support for additional funding for federal research and research infrastructure, support for workforce and economic development initiatives, student mental health and academic success priorities throughout the FY25 budget and appropriations process. Continued support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including increased funding for: the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Estuarine Research Reserve, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and the Pell Grant Program. Concern with proposed cuts to Facilities and Administrative Costs across federal research agencies. Support for federal financial aid programs including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for sustainability efforts and energy and water sciences research - including via the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Department of Energy - the Freshwater Collaborative of Wisconsin, including PFAS research. Support for rural autonomous vehicles via Department of Transportation funding and the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act. Support for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program in FY25 appropriations legislation.

Client expense: $97,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities including the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act and student federal financial aid including: the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, TRIO, GEAR UP, and the Pell Grant Program. Support for efforts related to freedom of expression and civil dialogue on college campuses. Continued review and concerns with H.R.6951 - College Cost Reduction Act. Concerns with Gainful Employment and Financial Value Transparency Regulations. Concerns with H.R.1048 - DETERRENT Act. Concerns related to potential impacts to student financial aid and to other operational matters resulting from ongoing efforts to close the Department of Education and the agency's reduction in force.

Client expense: $97,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Education, Dept of, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Support for the UW System's 2025 Federal Priorities which look to foster talent and diversity including support for comprehensive immigration reform that includes support for students brought to the United States as young children and international students who wish to remain post-graduation; support for efforts to improve visa processing.

Client expense: $97,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, State, Dept of (DOS)

On 1/21 met with staff from the office of Sen. Sanders to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities, Programing, and Events. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 1/28 met with staff from the office of Rep. Pappas to discuss the 90/10 loophole. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 1/29 met with staff from the office of Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick introduce SVA and 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/3 met with staff from the office of Sen. Scott to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities, Programing, and Events. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/4 met with staff from the office of Sen. Cassidy to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities, Programing, and Events. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/13 met with staff from the office of Rep. Bost to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/20 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/20 met with staff from the office of Sen. Blumenthal to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/24 met with staff from the office of Rep. Pappas to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/24 met with staff from the office of Rep. Bost to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with Rep. Takano and staff to discuss SVA Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with staff from the office of Rep. Johnson to discuss SVA Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with staff from the office of Rep. Clark to discuss SVA Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to discuss National Guard and Reserve Parity. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/4 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Rep. Hageman to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Sen. Barrasso to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Rep. Jeffries to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Sen. Emmer to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Sen. Blumenthal to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Rep. Bost and staff to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Sen. Schumer to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Rep. Van Orden and staff to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Rep. Levin to discuss National Guard and Reserve Parity. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/6 met with Rep. Pappas and staff to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/12 met with staff from the office of Rep. Levin to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/14 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to follow up from SVA's Washington Week. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/21 met with staff from the office of Rep. Bost to follow up from SVA's Washington Week. Associated with codes: VET, EDU.

On 1/21 met with staff from the office of Sen. Sanders to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities, Programing, and Events. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 1/28 met with staff from the office of Rep. Pappas to discuss the 90/10 loophole. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 1/29 met with staff from the office of Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick introduce SVA and 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/3 met with staff from the office of Sen. Scott to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities, Programing, and Events. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/4 met with staff from the office of Sen. Cassidy to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities, Programing, and Events. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/13 met with staff from the office of Rep. Bost to discuss SVA's 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/20 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/20 met with staff from the office of Sen. Blumenthal to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/24 met with staff from the office of Rep. Pappas to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 2/24 met with staff from the office of Rep. Bost to discuss HVAC/SVAC hearing. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with Rep. Takano and staff to discuss SVA Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with staff from the office of Rep. Johnson to discuss SVA Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with staff from the office of Rep. Clark to discuss SVA Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/3 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to discuss National Guard and Reserve Parity. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/4 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Rep. Hageman to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Sen. Barrasso to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Rep. Jeffries to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Sen. Emmer to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Sen. Blumenthal to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Rep. Bost and staff to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Sen. Schumer to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with Rep. Van Orden and staff to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/5 met with staff from the office of Rep. Levin to discuss National Guard and Reserve Parity. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/6 met with Rep. Pappas and staff to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/12 met with staff from the office of Rep. Levin to discuss SVA 2025 Policy Priorities. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/14 met with staff from the office of Sen. Moran to follow up from SVA's Washington Week. Associated with codes: VET, EDU. On 3/21 met with staff from the office of Rep. Bost to follow up from SVA's Washington Week. Associated with codes: VET, EDU.