More than 50 Oklahoma Farm Bureau members recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for agriculture and learn about the latest national issues facing the industry during OKFB’s 2024 Washington, D.C. Summit fly-in.

The trip included congressional briefings, industry updates, group activities and time to tour the sights of our nation’s capital, allowing Oklahoma farmers and ranchers an opportunity to share their perspectives with officials and industry representatives who craft laws and oversee regulations impacting agriculture.

A series of congressional briefings highlighted the 2024 Washington, D.C. Summit, and members had the chance to hear from Sens. James Lankford and Markwayne Mullin.

Lankford shared with Farm Bureau members his position on immigration and border security, the wars in Ukraine and Israel, and the progress he has seen on the farm bill. Mullin visited about budgetary appropriations and earmarks, government shutdowns and the challenges that follow, and tribal relations.

OKFB members also heard from four of Oklahoma’s five house members. Rep. Stephanie Bice shared her perspective on inflation, the current administration’s executive orders and foreign ownership of land.

Fellow OKFB member Rep. Frank Lucas explained the challenges and progress on the farm bill, noting his view that perfecting the farm bill should not prevent passing the farm bill.

Rep. Kevin Hern of Tulsa visited with members about steppedup basis and farm transitions, agricultural labor challenges and the H2A visa program, the Ukrainian war’s impact on the nation’s wheat supply and more.

Rep. Josh Brecheen walked members through governmental spending and income tax considerations. The newest of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation, Brecheen also shared his vision for food assistance reform for the farm bill’s nutrition title.