Congressman Biggs Obtains Victory for Arizona Ranchers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a win for Arizona, the U.S. Department of the Interior released a proposed grazing rule to “give ranchers more flexibility, improve the health of rangelands and support rural communities across the West.” The announcement comes as the number of U.S. cattle operations has dropped by more than 150,000 (17%), and the national herd has fallen to its lowest level in over 70 years. These decreased numbers resulted from government overreach and outdated rules that hampered ranchers’ ability to meet growing national beef demand.

The move from the Interior Department follows a request from Congressman Biggs, and joined by Representatives Ciscomani, Crane, and Gosar, urging the administration to review current grazing regulations and remove barriers that have been detrimental to the American cattle economy. Late last year, Congressman Biggs sent a letter to Interior Secretary Burgum and Agriculture Secretary Rollins, asking their agencies for a full assessment of federal policies to ensure the rebuilding of the American herd is not constrained by extreme environmental mandates or unnecessary restrictions.

“I applaud President Trump and Secretary Burgum for this proposed rule that puts America’s ranchers and food security first,” said Congressman Biggs.“Under the previous administration, cattle ranchers were forced to reduce their herd counts because of federal mandates and orders cutting public grazing land use. This administration knows how critical it is to protect our great ranchers and allow these families to provide abundant food to the American people. I support this proposed rule and look forward to it taking effect in the coming months."

Read the December 2025 letter from Congressman Biggs here.

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