Members of the National Farmers Union (NFU) met with administration officials and Congressional representatives in Washington DC last week for the organization’s 2015 Fall Legislative Fly-In.

“This fall has proven to be a very important time for several Farmers Union issues, including the path forward for voluntary Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL), the full implementation of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) as well as several trade-related issues,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “The fly-in allows family farmers and ranchers whose lives and livelihoods are shaped by these policies to come to the nation’s capital to make clear that their voices are heard.”

Some 275 Farmers Union members gathered in Washington for the fly-in to visit the offices of every member of Congress to highlight the priorities of the organization, including COOL, which faces repeal due to retaliation threats by Canada and Mexico. NFU supports a voluntary approach rather than repeal. “For those who genuinely care about food labeling, the voluntary COOL bill in the Senate, the Voluntary Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) and Trade Enhancement Act of 2015, is the only legislative game in town,” said Johnson.

NFU is also concerned about the decision to allow beef imports from Northern Argentina and more than half the states in Brazil. Both these countries are Foot and Mouth Disease hotspots. “Thankfully, Congress has proposed putting the brakes on this risky move through the appropriations process and America’s family farmers and ranchers are very pleased with that decision,” said Johnson.