Policy and politics will be the subject this fall as IDFA’s boards and members convene in the nation’s capital to hear directly from some of the most powerful leaders in Congress and the Obama administration.
IDFA’s newest educational offering, the Policy & Politics Conference, will provide insight into the strategies and deal-making that are shaping the agenda during this election cycle. It also will provide access to the top decisions-makers within the federal agencies responsible for the regulations that cover dairy products and businesses. The Policy & Politics Conference will be held September 19-21 at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C.
“Future policy that will shape our industry is up for discussion and debate as we move through the messy process of lawmaking amid a national election,” said Connie Tipton, IDFA president and CEO. “While all of the policy and politics remain incredibly relevant to our business, there has been a steady erosion of opportunities to include Capitol Hill leaders and their staff in events taking place beyond the Beltway.”
With an eye on the 33 U.S Senate seats on the ballot in November, IDFA has invited one of the leaders of the National Republican Senatorial Committee to discuss the likelihood of Republicans gaining control of the Senate.
Also, members of congressional agriculture committees will discuss their views on the 2012 Farm Bill, agriculture policy and which dairy policy changes are headed our way. Will good policy recommendations get caught in the cross fire between Democrats and Republicans?
Mike Taylor, deputy commissioner for foods at the Food and Drug Administration, will headline a cross-agency session on the future of food safety. The panel will be asked to consider if government should advance a stronger position on food safety or expect industry to test for anything and everything. Is a single food agency in the cards?
The conference will kick off with a performance by the Capitol Steps, a political-comedy troupe that pokes fun at all that goes on here in Washington. New song parodies include “If I Tax a Rich Man,” “Secret Service Man” and an update of the perennial favorite, “Lirty Dies.”
“Everything we have and want for our kids and grandkids is at stake in the November elections,” said Tipton. “During an election year, you have the power to change the future – join us in D.C. this September for our Policy & Politics Conference.”
Sponsorship opportunities for the Policy & Politics Conference are still available. Contact Robin Cornelison, IDFA trade show director, at (202) 220-3542 for information.
Registration is open and more conference details are available here.
Photo Credit: Bill Hurd
