New Farm Bill Boosts Insurance and Ag Tax Benefits
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” also known as H.R.1, is a new farm bill designed to secure the future of American agriculture. It extends crucial programs until 2031, providing long-term support for farmers and ranchers.
A major feature is the expansion of the farm safety net. Programs like PLC, ARC, and DMC now offer better coverage. The bill introduces higher reference prices, updated payment caps, and escalator mechanisms to adjust to market changes.
Insurance benefits for beginning farmers have been strengthened. Premium support increases and eligibility expands to 10 years. A pilot poultry insurance program addresses risks from market volatility and disease.
The bill secures funding for conservation programs through 2031, including EQIP, CSP, and ACEP. Although some forestry grant funds are cut, renewed programs like feral swine control and source water protection are reauthorized.
Dairy farms benefit from updated baselines and multi-year enrollment discounts under DMC. Specialty and organic growers receive support through pest control, data tracking, and certification cost-sharing.
A new Agricultural Trade Promotion Program with $285 million in annual funding enhances global market access for U.S. products, doubling existing trade capacity.
Tax relief measures include a permanent $15 million estate tax exemption and expanded deductions. Business expensing thresholds are raised, and bonus depreciation is restored through 2029.
USDA will now conduct a mandatory cost survey of dairy processors, a long-standing demand from producers for more transparent pricing systems.
Animal health programs are strengthened with $233 million yearly for vaccine stockpiles and disease response efforts. These aim to protect against threats like avian flu and foot-and-mouth disease.
As the bill moves to the Senate, producers hope its broad coverage of farm, tax, and rural development issues will remain unchanged.
“H.R.1 represents a meaningful step toward securing the tools farmers and ranchers need to navigate today’s volatile economic landscape.”