(Photo: Iowa Soybean Association)
Advocacy Update: Shaping up policy priorities in 2026
January 6, 2026 | Katie Hall
How is it 2026 already?! 2025 was a very dynamic year for government relations teams and we expect the same for 2026.
In November, we welcomed ISA Advocate members and delegates to nine regional policy discussions. From each meeting, we came away with great input on ISA's policy resolutions. A massive thank you to the folks who participated in person and those who called and sent emails to voice their concerns and suggest updates to our resolutions. We truly appreciate your support through ISA Advocate membership — your investment supports our lobbying efforts at the statehouse and in our nation's capital on your behalf.
Notable issues we anticipate in this year's legislative session: property taxes, property rights, food ingredient bans and providing consistency in labeling for crop protection tools. Note: As this article is written weeks ahead of session, all things are subject to change; policy conversations can quickly shift.
The property tax discussion has varied as the legislature considers a path of tax relief or a more complex path of tax reform. That discussion will likely include removing the tax exemption on forest and fruit tree reservations: we will support that effort again in 2026.
As the legislature considers food ingredient bans and possible definitions of ultra-processed foods, ISA will continue to collaborate with legislators, associations and industry partners to reinforce the health attributes and safety of soy foods. Local communities thrive as farmers grow feed and food, including soy-based products. To drive healthy outcomes, it's a holistic approach: active lifestyle, maintaining close relationships with friends and family, and focusing on a nutrient-dense, balanced diet.
We also anticipate proactive legislation that would provide consistency and clarity on pesticide labeling. These products undergo rigorous scientific review and are issued registrations from the U.S. EPA. Approved labels should be consistent from state to state related to health and safety information, meeting state-level notice requirements.
Another key topic we'll see addressed in 2026 is property rights. Eminent domain has been a residual issue as stakeholders discuss the future of carbon capture pipelines and landowner property rights. The Senate may put forward legislation addressing issues from the previous year to start the session. I commend anyone who attempts to get the hard work out of the way first.
As we continue to work on policy impacting Iowa's farmers, it's worth noting that your investment in an ISA Advocate membership directly supports our efforts keeping ISA's priorities top of mind with key decision makers. Sign up to become a member by scanning the QR code with your smartphone, or by reaching out to me.
As always, I'm honored to represent you in Des Moines and D.C.
Written by Katie Hall.
Back