In the rapidly evolving landscape of agricultural law, staying informed is not just an advantage, but a necessity. The National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) is stepping up to meet this need with its upcoming Mid-South conference, offering a deep dive into the latest legal developments shaping the agricultural sector.
The conference’s “Early Bird” online session, scheduled for May 14, will be led by NALC’s Elizabeth Rumley and Brigit Rollins. Their presentation, “Halfway There: Mid-Year Mid-South Review of Legal Developments,” promises to unpack the most significant legal changes and their implications for agricultural producers.
Rumley highlights the unprecedented pace of changes in agricultural law, noting that 2024 was particularly busy, and 2025 shows no signs of slowing down. The session will cover a range of topics, each with substantial impacts on the agricultural community.
One of the most contentious issues is foreign ownership of agricultural land. With 14 states enacting or amending laws in 2024 and nearly three dozen states proposing legislation in 2025, this topic is heating up. Kentucky, Idaho, and Utah have already taken action this year, signaling a trend that’s likely to continue. The federal government is also involved, with ongoing activity that could reshape the landscape of agricultural land ownership.
Another hot topic is Proposition 12, California’s law banning the sale of pork products from pigs not raised according to specific confinement standards. The law has faced legal challenges, including a Supreme Court case in 2023, and has sparked a national debate. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) has introduced a bill aiming to prevent other states from enacting similar laws, adding another layer of complexity to the issue.
Pesticides are also under the microscope. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently released its final insecticide strategy, focusing on reducing spray drift and runoff to protect endangered species. Meanwhile, states are introducing pesticide liability limitation bills to shield pesticide companies in lawsuits. These developments could significantly impact how pesticides are used and regulated in the future.
The “Early Bird” session is just the beginning. The main Mid-South conference, scheduled for June 5-6 in Memphis, Tennessee, will delve even deeper into these topics. The conference is co-hosted by the NALC and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation, ensuring a comprehensive and authoritative exploration of agricultural law.
Registration for the conference is open online, with a May 13 deadline for those wishing to attend the “Early Bird” session. Whether you’re a legal professional, an agricultural producer, or simply interested in the intersection of law and agriculture, this conference offers a unique opportunity to stay informed and engaged.