Cattlemen’s Association sets legislative priorities

AMES — The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association recently announced its state policy priorities heading into the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session. These policy priorities focus on protecting private property rights, ensuring fair tax treatment for cattle producers, strengthening foreign animal disease preparedness and improving livestock transportation efficiency.

“These priorities reflect what Iowa cattle producers need to remain competitive and resilient,” said Craig Moss, ICA President. “We look forward to working closely with the Iowa Legislature and the Governor’s Office to deliver more legislative wins for our members.”

Private property rights

ICA opposes the use of eminent domain for private use across all projects and supports reducing landowner impact from new development. The Association is calling for clear, enforceable land restoration standards to ensure farmland can be returned to productive use.

Fair and competitive tax policy

ICA supports a tax environment that does not unfairly burden cattle producers. Priorities include reducing or eliminating the Fruit & Forest Tree Reserve Tax Exemption, creating a sales tax exemption for building materials used in single-use barns, and preserving the livestock capital gains tax deduction.

Foreign animal disease preparedness

Protecting Iowa’s cattle herd remains critical. ICA urges increased investment in foreign animal disease preparedness, including funding for prevention tools such as vaccines, and ensuring the state is equipped to respond swiftly to disease threats.

Interstate weight limits

ICA is working with legislators to urge Congress to modernize interstate weight limits for livestock haulers to reflect today’s equipment, improve efficiency, and support animal welfare.