b'Influence on Public Perception of Seed TechnologyKennedys public skepticism toward biotechnology could erode consumer trust in products derived from genetically engineered seeds. Even subtle shifts in messaging could increase demand for non-GMO, organic or heirloom seeds. Programs like school lunches and institutional food procurement could also move toward sourcing from non-GE crops, altering demand patterns for seed companies.Nutritional Guidelines and Functional TraitsThrough HHS, Kennedy co-leads the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which shape federal nutrition programs and influ-ence agricultural research priorities. There could be a shift toward favoring natural nutrition sources, potentially deprior-itizing seed innovations that use genetic engineering to enhance traits like nutrient density or drought tolerance.Intersection With USDA and EPAAlthough he does not control USDA or EPA, Kennedys leader-ship at HHS could create friction over biotech regulation, pesti-cide tolerances and co-regulatory decisions. Seed treatments, food safety thresholds and approvals for biotech traits could face longer timelines if inter-agency disagreements emerge.Bottom Line for the Seed IndustryWhile Kennedys role does not directly regulate seeds, his influ-ence over biotechnology policy, food labeling and public trust could have lasting effects. Seed companies should closely moni-tor FDA actions, participate in public comment periods, and proactively educate customers about the safety, science and Use this searchable Congressional Directory at congress.gov/members to identifyvalue of seed innovation.your lawmakers and see their ag committee roles.Tools to Stay ConnectedFind Your RepresentativesUse this searchable Congressional Directory at congress.gov/3 WAYS TO INFLUENCE SEED POLICY members to identify your lawmakers and see their ag commit-tee roles.1. Know Your LawmakersUse the Congressional Directory to look up your U.S. Senators and Representatives.Watch for Public CommentsCheck their committee assignmentsespecially if they serve on agriculture,Policies around biotech approval, seed labeling and conservation appropriations or science committees. programs often go through public comment at Regulations.gov.2. Comment Where It Counts Get Industry UpdatesVisit Regulations.gov to weigh in on proposed USDA rules that affect biotechTrack policy alerts and action opportunities through:approvals, seed labeling, conservation seed programs and more. Public comments American Seed Trade Association (ASTA)betterseed.orghelp shape final policy.Independent Professional Seed Associationipseed.org Organic Seed Alliance (OSA)seedalliance.org3. Engage Through Your Industry AssociationJoin advocacy efforts from organizations like the American Seed Trade AssociationWith the next Farm Bill still under construction and influential (ASTA), the Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA), or the Organic Seedseats changing hands, the decisions made nowor not madeAlliance (OSA). These groups coordinate Capitol Hill visits, share policy updates andwill echo across the seed sector.If youve never picked up the phone, sent a comment, or create opportunities for members to speak directly with lawmakers. walked the halls of Capitol Hill, nows the time. The seed industry has too much at stake to sit this one out.SW10/ SEEDWORLD.COMJUNE 2025'