Senator Ernst urges union engagement on USDA staff relocation expenses
July 30, 2025 | Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry convened on July 30, 2025, to review the USDA reorganization proposal, focusing on employee relocation and the management of invasive species.
The meeting began with discussions surrounding the relocation of USDA staff, particularly in light of past commitments made during the 2019 relocations of the Economic Research Service (ERS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Concerns were raised about the lack of negotiation with unions regarding relocation expenses. A signed agreement outlining these incentives was presented for the record, highlighting the importance of honoring previous commitments.
Secretary Vaden addressed these concerns, noting that while there is a statutory cap on relocation assistance, the department intends to cover expenses within those limits. He expressed a willingness to engage more with union leaders to ensure their voices are heard throughout the reorganization process.
The conversation then shifted to the issue of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive species affecting Pennsylvania farmers. Senator Ernst inquired about the continuity of control programs for this pest amid the reorganization. Secretary Vaden assured the committee that the reorganization would not interfere with the critical work of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in managing invasive species threats.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain open lines of communication with union representatives and to prioritize the ongoing efforts against invasive species, ensuring that essential agricultural programs remain unaffected by the proposed changes. The committee's focus on these issues underscores the importance of employee welfare and environmental management in the USDA's strategic planning.
The meeting began with discussions surrounding the relocation of USDA staff, particularly in light of past commitments made during the 2019 relocations of the Economic Research Service (ERS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Concerns were raised about the lack of negotiation with unions regarding relocation expenses. A signed agreement outlining these incentives was presented for the record, highlighting the importance of honoring previous commitments.
Secretary Vaden addressed these concerns, noting that while there is a statutory cap on relocation assistance, the department intends to cover expenses within those limits. He expressed a willingness to engage more with union leaders to ensure their voices are heard throughout the reorganization process.
The conversation then shifted to the issue of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive species affecting Pennsylvania farmers. Senator Ernst inquired about the continuity of control programs for this pest amid the reorganization. Secretary Vaden assured the committee that the reorganization would not interfere with the critical work of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in managing invasive species threats.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain open lines of communication with union representatives and to prioritize the ongoing efforts against invasive species, ensuring that essential agricultural programs remain unaffected by the proposed changes. The committee's focus on these issues underscores the importance of employee welfare and environmental management in the USDA's strategic planning.
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