Braden Jensen — Braden Jensen is identified as being present from the Farm Bureau and then testifies on behalf of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation in support of House Bill 879, thanking the sponsor.
Mr. Jensen — Jensen concludes his testimony.
Ms. Wilder — Invited to present to the committee.
Ms. Wilder — Ms. Wilder explained that changes in barley yield and acreage are not part of a planned cycle but are driven by external factors such as drought, market surplus, contracting decisions, and the specific needs of maltsters and brewers. She noted that in 2021 a severe drought affected Idaho and the broader barley-growing region, and that malt barley is typically contracted based on the specifications and varieties needed by buyers.
Laura Wilder — Introduces herself as Executive Director of the Idaho Barley Commission and begins an update.
Laura Wilder — Referenced as having spoken earlier today on behalf of the Idaho Barley Commission.
Chef Nate from Turwar in Boise — A James Beard finalist who did a cooking class/show for dietitians and created barley recipes.
Maya — Asked to introduce herself so her last name could be pronounced correctly.
Laura — Referenced as having previously addressed the barley topic well.
Brittany Hearst — Referenced as having spoken earlier in the session on behalf of the Idaho Wheat Commission.
Mr. Gary Landa — Responded that maintaining the Pacific Northwest Coalition and working jointly with neighboring states is important.
Mr. Gary Landa — Said the Workforce Modernization Act is a current topic in conversations in Washington, D.C., but he had no progress update to share.
Ron Taylor — Representative Miller asked for an update on the Workforce Modernization Act, noting he had not heard recent developments, and the chair then acknowledged him as the discussion moved into a response to his question.