This week, Eli Earich of BECE and Melinda Witten joined NGFA members from across the country in Washington, D.C., for the association’s annual Summer Legislative Fly-In. As part of the Ohio AgriBusiness Association delegation, they met with key members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees—including committee chairs, ranking members, and their senior staff—to directly advocate for Ohio’s agri-business priorities.

 

During their meetings on Capitol Hill, Eli and Melinda emphasized four critical issues: the urgent need for sustained investment in transportation infrastructure, support for the next Farm Bill and the Innovative Feed Act, reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act, and clarification of evolving regulatory requirements related to chemical use and environmental compliance. They illustrated how these policy debates affect Ohio’s producers, feed manufacturers, and grain handlers—urging lawmakers to balance national competitiveness with local farm viability.

 

By participating in this Fly-In, Eli and Melinda strengthened OABA’s relationships with federal policymakers and reinforced the association’s reputation as a trusted industry voice. Their advocacy efforts contributed to advancing practical reforms that will benefit Ohio’s agribusinesses—from improved rail and truck logistics to robust export programs. This engagement ensures that forthcoming legislation will reflect the real-world needs of the grain, feed, and processing sectors they represent.