Senate Farm Bill Draft Advances Key Priorities for Farmers and Rural Communities
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded to the farm bill discussion draft recently released by Senator John Boozman, chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, expressing appreciation for efforts to advance legislation that supports U.S. agriculture.
According to Duvall, the proposal contains several provisions that would benefit farm families and rural communities.
Among the key measures are expanded access to agricultural credit, increased support for specialty crop producers, greater transparency within fertilizer markets, and additional investments in conservation and research programs.
“Farm Bureau appreciates Senator Boozman’s work to move a farm bill forward in the Senate. The bill text provides important support for farm families. The benefits include improved access to credit, expanded investments in specialty crops, increased transparency in fertilizer markets, and enhanced research and conservation programs. The discussion draft is a good first step and provides a solid foundation that Farm Bureau will work to improve upon as the Senate moves toward markup,” Duvall stated.
Duvall noted that the Farm Bureau previously urged federal leaders to address the difficult financial conditions facing farmers and ranchers. He referenced letters sent in October 2025 to US President Donald Trump and congressional leaders outlining concerns about inflation and other economic pressures affecting rural America.
While acknowledging recent progress, Duvall emphasized that additional action is needed. He identified three priorities not included in the current draft: direct economic assistance for producers facing rising costs, protections against conflicting state regulations that impact interstate commerce, and year-round approval of E15 fuel sales.
The Farm Bureau president also highlighted support from the administration and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins for these issues. He concluded by urging lawmakers to quickly pass a bipartisan farm bill while simultaneously addressing these additional concerns to strengthen the agricultural economy and support America’s farmers and ranchers.
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