Farm Bill Needed Despite Budget Support

Jul 18, 2025
By Farms.com

Budget Deal Aids Agriculture but New Farm Bill Remains Critical

The agriculture sector received a financial boost from the recent budget reconciliation, but the call for a new farm bill remains strong among U.S. farmers and ranchers.

Congress approved about $66 billion in new agricultural investments under the budget deal. A large portion of this—around $60 billion—was allocated to enhancing risk management programs and farm safety nets.

These funds help extend critical commodity support programs through 2031, raise commodity reference prices, and expand premium support for young and beginning farmers and ranchers.

Even with these investments, key agricultural programs still require legislative updates. The Conservation Reserve Program is among the vital initiatives awaiting reauthorization and funding. This program plays a key role in environmental conservation and sustainable farming practices.

Additionally, rural broadband access remains an urgent priority for farming communities. Expanding connectivity can enhance productivity, support local economies, and bridge the digital divide in rural America.

There’s also a need for continued investment in agricultural research and extension services. These programs help farmers adopt innovative practices and improve production efficiency. Furthermore, addressing regulatory issues, such as resolving the challenges posed by Proposition 12, is critical for the future of the industry.

Congressional committees are now actively working on the new farm bill. Both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees are conducting hearings and gathering input on policy priorities, aiming to finalize the legislation in the upcoming months.

While the recent budget action provided meaningful support, the passage of a comprehensive farm bill is essential to secure the future of U.S. agriculture, support environmental efforts, improve rural infrastructure, and strengthen policy frameworks for the nation’s farmers.

Video: Dicamba Returns for Georgia Farmers: What the New EPA Ruling Means for Cotton Growers

After being unavailable in 2024 due to registration issues, dicamba products are returning for Georgia farmers this growing season — but under strict new conditions.

In this report from Tifton, Extension Weed Specialist Stanley Culpepper explains the updated EPA ruling, including new application limits, mandatory training requirements, and the need for a restricted use pesticide license. Among the key changes: a cap of two ½-pound applications per year and the required use of an approved volatility reduction agent with every application.

For Georgia cotton producers, the ruling is significant. According to Taylor Sills with the Georgia Cotton Commission, the vast majority of cotton planted in the state carries the dicamba-tolerant trait — meaning farmers had been paying for technology they couldn’t use.

While environmental groups have expressed concerns over spray drift, Georgia growers have reduced off-target pesticide movement by more than 91% over the past decade. Still, this two-year registration period will come with increased scrutiny, making stewardship and compliance more important than ever.