Eight county Farm Bureau members representing Michigan played a key role in shaping national agricultural policy in late February, participating in American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Issue Advisory Committee meetings in Washington, D.C.
The committees bring together members from across the country with subject-matter expertise to evaluate complex issues and develop policy recommendations.
“Michigan farmers represented our state’s ag interests well and provided a critical voice on issues that matter to our members,” said Michigan Farm Bureau President Ben LaCross. “Their leadership on these committees is an important part of ensuring our policy remains farmer-driven and effective.”
While in D.C., the group met with members of Michigan’s congressional delegation, U.S. Department of Agriculture officials, and Senate Agriculture Committee staff. Conversations focused on key priorities, including passage of a new farm bill with adequate funding, solutions to ongoing workforce challenges, and continued support for conservation and agricultural research programs.
For Lenawee County Farm Bureau member Loren King, who serves on the technology committee, the experience offered valuable insight into emerging and complex issues.
“The most valuable part of participating in AFBF Issue Advisory Committee meetings is the context we gain on complex issues such as data centers, water rights, and artificial intelligence,” King said. “The preparation we gain while in D.C. is invaluable in drafting our policy recommendations going forward.”
King said discussions with congressional offices and industry stakeholders highlighted the long-term economic impacts of tariffs, the need for thoughtful investment in agricultural technology, and how evolving labor regulations could benefit sectors like dairy.
“These conversations present a great opportunity for farmer voices to not only be heard by legislators, but also by stakeholders across the industry,” he said. “It’s a two-way exchange — we share agriculture’s perspective while also learning from others working in these spaces.”
Kent County Farm Bureau member Allan Robinette, who serves on the organic, food safety and direct marketing committee, emphasized the value of staying informed on national issues impacting agriculture.
“For me, the most valuable part is being kept up to date on issues facing agriculture on the national level,” Robinette said. “AFBF does a great job bringing in experts to speak on direct marketing, organic and food safety matters.”
He added that Michigan’s strong representation plays a direct role in shaping national and state policy.
“Michigan has more Farm Bureau members on Issue Advisory Committees than any other state, which ensures that our state has a seat at the table when national policy is considered,” Robinette said. “It also allows us to come home and influence our state policy book based on the information we get in Washington, D.C.”
In addition to King and Robinette, Michigan representatives included:
- Kari Molter, Berrien County Farm Bureau (labor committee)
- Brad Lubbers, Allegan County Farm Bureau (animal health committee)
- Pete Kleiman, MFB Board of Directors, District 12 (budget and economy committee)
- Lisa Russcher, Allegan County Farm Bureau (environmental regulations and water committee)
- Nicholas Reigler, Barry County Farm Bureau (farm policy committee)
- Logan Crumbaugh, Gratiot County Farm Bureau (wildlife damage committee)
- Ben LaCross, MFB president and AFBF Board member (labor committee)
Participation in AFBF Issue Advisory Committees not only strengthens national policy outcomes but also serves as a valuable leadership development opportunity for members — equipping them with knowledge, connections and experience that benefit the organization at every level.