WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a new USDA framework aimed at ending what officials call agricultural lawfare.
The Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework focuses on reducing federal enforcement actions, limiting regulations and strengthening private property protections.
For Lenawee County farmers, the USDA framework does not create new funding or direct payments.
Instead, it signals potential changes in how federal rules are enforced, particularly in areas involving land use, environmental compliance and permitting.
The framework also emphasizes opposition to eminent domain or federal land acquisitions affecting farmland.
Any specific rule changes would require additional federal action and public review.
Existing USDA programs, including crop insurance and conservation assistance, remain unchanged for now.
Officials say further regulatory updates will be announced as the framework moves forward.