UEP has long-been an active player in federal, state and local government issues. However it is expanding its Congressional and regulatory engagement in 2014 to ensure that American consumers retain access to an uninterrupted supply of safe, affordable eggs.

"We’ve worked with federal regulatory agencies and Congress for decades, including the past two years trying to pass a national egg production standard. Working through this initiative taught us valuable lessons with regard to the Congressional legislative process and the importance of being a regular presence on Capitol Hill," said UEP President Chad Gregory. "Recent efforts helped bring our members’ voice to Washington, but we must build on those efforts, and we believe hiring these two talented firms will allow UEP members to be more clearly heard in future discussions."

"So much of our livelihood as farmers depends on interactions with federal and state government," said Jim Dean, Iowa egg farmer and chairman of the UEP Board of Directors. "It is imperative that we have a strong and ongoing presence in Washington."

The CGA team, led by Louie Perry III, will be responsible for developing and executing the UEP Congressional strategy and also drive the relationship-building process with House and Senate members and their staff. The Watson Green team, led by Randy Green, will represent UEP and its members with federal regulatory agencies.

"Recent surveys show that consumers place the American egg farmer near the top of all food producers in terms of animal welfare, food safety and environmental sustainability, which is a story we must continue sharing with federal regulators," said Mr Gregory. "We must continue educating federal regulators about the UEP Certified program and its standards in order to develop oversight and testing protocols that ensure America’s egg supply remains safe and retains the high approval of American consumers."

"The CGA team has deep expertise representing members of America’s agricultural community and believes that, while smaller than some food production groups, UEP member recent investment of time and talent in Washington has earned them a seat at the legislative table," said Ron Truex, an Indiana egg farmer who chairs UEP’s Government Relations Committee. "Issues facing America’s farmers are not getting easier or going away and it is imperative that UEP continue its Congressional conversations to ensure its members are able to affordably produce this vital consumer food staple."