Sioux Empire Today

The European Union has been leveraging its economic and political influence to enforce trade practices aimed at protecting geographic indicators. This move may impact the sale of United States agricultural products in international markets. In response, the Safeguarding American Food and Export Trade Yields Act has been reintroduced by Senator Thune and a colleague. This bill aims to amend the Agriculture Trade Act of 1978, incorporating a defined list of common names for commodities and food products to safeguard American producers from foreign market barriers.

In related legislative efforts, the Portland Cement Association invited a congressional leader to discuss the Fair SHARE Act during their annual meeting. This legislation seeks to ensure electric vehicles contribute to the Highway Trust Fund, which finances road and bridge maintenance. The bill addresses the impending insolvency of the fund and proposes a method to maintain funding for infrastructure.

Additionally, the conversation covered the SHIP IT Act. This proposed legislation aims to enhance trucking safety, attract and retain drivers, and provide flexibility during emergencies. These measures are intended to optimize the supply chain's efficiency, and the congressional leader plans to advocate for these proposals in the upcoming highway reauthorization.

In other news, President Trump's recent announcement of broad tariffs followed a significant trade deficit of over $1.2 trillion in 2024 under President Biden's administration. While tariffs are being utilized as a negotiation tool, the congressional leader involved expressed opposition to high tariffs as a sustainable trade policy. The focus remains on securing advantageous trade deals and reducing barriers for American producers and consumers.