Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has announced a five-point plan aimed at rebuilding the American cattle herd, stabilizing beef supplies, and lowering grocery store prices for consumers. Miller commended the USDA’s recent plan under President Trump and Secretary Brooke Rollins but outlined additional steps he believes are vital for supporting U.S. cattle producers.
His proposal includes:
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Rejecting reliance on lower-quality Argentine beef imports, which he says do little to support American beef quality or producers.
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Reversing the $48 billion agricultural trade deficit by prioritizing American beef production and exports instead of imports.
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Reopening federal and CRP grazing lands, which were restricted under previous policies, to give ranchers more pasture access amid drought conditions.
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Introducing a “Heifer Retention Tax Credit” to encourage herd rebuilding by rewarding producers who keep heifers for breeding.
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Allowing controlled imports of live Mexican feeder cattle, rather than boxed beef, to quickly stabilize beef supplies without compromising biosecurity.
“These five actions will rebuild America’s cattle herd, stabilize beef supplies, lower consumer prices, and support our nation’s cattle producers,” Miller said adding if done safely, reopening that supply chain could lower U.S. beef prices “overnight.”
Sid emphasized that these measures would help restore the national cattle herd, support American ranchers, and keep high-quality beef affordable for families.
Miller’s proposal has drawn significant media attention across Texas and the nation. Outlets including the Dallas Express, Houston Chronicle, and San Antonio Express-News have reported on his opposition to increased Argentine beef imports and his call to prioritize rebuilding America’s own cattle herd. The plan has sparked conversation among producers, economists, and policymakers about how to balance trade, food security, and fair pricing for both ranchers and consumers.