Sioux City Times

Joni Ernst, U.S. Senator representing Iowa, has recently addressed several legislative and policy concerns in a series of posts on her social media account.

On September 8, 2025, Ernst stated opposition to California’s Proposition 12 and its impact on agriculture outside the state. She wrote, "I will not allow radical liberals in California to ban our bacon in Iowa! Congress needs to strike down California's disastrous Prop 12 through my Food Security and Farm Protection Act to protect family farms and lower food costs!"

The following day, Ernst raised concerns about foreign access to taxpayer-funded technology. In a post dated September 9, 2025, she said, "Loopholes and a lack of consistent foreign due diligence standards are allowing China to reap the benefits of billions of dollars in taxpayer-funded technology. I am working with the Pentagon to ensure we unleash the Golden Age in America, not subsidize research in Beijing."

Later that same day, Ernst highlighted her support for innovation programs tied to national security. She posted on September 9, 2025: "The SBIR-STTR programs are America’s innovation pipeline. My INNOVATE Act ensures our warfighters are equipped to meet the threats of tomorrow."

Proposition 12 is a California law that sets animal welfare standards for pork sold within the state regardless of where it is produced. The law has been controversial among pork producers outside California who argue it affects their operations nationwide by imposing additional compliance requirements.

The SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) programs provide funding opportunities for small businesses engaged in federal research and development with potential for commercialization. These initiatives are considered essential components of the United States' strategy for maintaining technological competitiveness and supporting defense innovation.