NCBA Sets 2026 Policy Priorities

By Scout Nelson

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association announced its 2026 policy priorities following approval by its Executive Committee at CattleCon 2026. Organization leaders said progress made in 2025 created a strong base for the year ahead, especially in the areas of tax and regulatory reform.

“NCBA focused on practical, workable solutions that produced meaningful policy wins in 2025,” said NCBA President-Elect Gene Copenhaver, a Virginia cattle producer. “NCBA’s efforts resulted in key tax and regulatory improvements, including expanded estate tax exemptions, a new Waters of the U.S. rules, and the rescission of the Bureau of Land Management Public Lands Rule, providing greater certainty and opportunity for cattlemen and cattlewomen.”

Building on those achievements, NCBA said its 2026 agenda will focus on policies that directly affect profitability and long-term stability across the cattle and beef sector. A major priority is reducing regulatory costs that increase operational expenses and limit flexibility. The organization will continue urging the administration to roll back regulations viewed as harmful to efficient production and marketing.

Protecting animal health will also be a key focus. NCBA plans to strengthen U.S. mitigation efforts against the potential spread of New World screwworm and defend the national cattle herd from foreign animal diseases and pests. These actions are intended to protect animal welfare, trade relationships, and domestic food security.

Trade and demand development remain central goals for 2026. NCBA will work to expand market access for U.S. beef exports while defending free and fair markets. Promoting science-based nutrition policies is also part of the strategy to maintain strong consumer confidence and beef demand.

Transportation and workforce issues are another important area of focus. The organization will push for additional hours-of-service flexibility, increased truck weight limits, and continued delays to electronic logging device requirements for livestock haulers. Ensuring a strong and reliable workforce across the cattle and beef supply chain is viewed as essential for long-term success.

Together, these policy priorities reflect NCBA’s goal of supporting a stable, competitive, and resilient cattle industry in 2026 and beyond.

Photo Credit: national-cattleman-s-beef-association