Rep Davids proposes amendment to protect Kansas NBAF workforce from USDA layoffs

In a recent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, a significant amendment aimed at safeguarding agricultural security was discussed. Representative Sharice Davids of Kansas proposed an amendment to prevent further job cuts at the National Bio and Agro Defense Facility (NBAF), a critical research center dedicated to protecting American agriculture from serious animal diseases.

Davids highlighted the importance of NBAF, which is the first biosafety level 4 facility for livestock in the United States. This facility plays a vital role in studying dangerous animal diseases that could threaten both food supply and public health. Earlier this year, 28 workers were laid off as part of budget cuts from the previous administration, a move that Davids argued jeopardizes national security and food safety.

The amendment was introduced in response to ongoing concerns about animal diseases, such as the recent closure of the U.S.-Mexico border to imports of live cattle due to the spread of the new world screw-worm. Davids emphasized that these diseases not only impact farmers and ranchers in Kansas but could also lead to higher grocery prices for consumers, as seen with the current avian flu outbreak affecting egg prices.

Despite the urgency of the amendment, it faced opposition during the meeting. The committee ultimately voted against it, with the chair noting that the nays had it. This decision raises questions about the future of agricultural security and the federal workforce at NBAF, as the facility continues to ramp up its operations.

The discussions in this meeting reflect broader concerns about food security and public health, underscoring the critical need for robust support for agricultural research and workforce stability. As the committee moves forward, the implications of these decisions will resonate throughout communities reliant on agriculture and food production.