Senate Bill Draws Mixed Reaction from Farm Organization
The National Farmers Union (NFU) has expressed concern over the Senate’s recent reconciliation bill, urging lawmakers to focus on passing a comprehensive five-year farm bill that serves the entire agriculture sector.
While acknowledging helpful elements in the bill—such as improved farm safety nets, investments in conservation, biofuels, and key tax incentives—NFU warns that these gains are undermined by significant tradeoffs.
These include reductions in SNAP and Medicaid funding and the creation of broader loopholes in farm payment limits.
“Family farmers and ranchers still need a comprehensive, five-year farm bill that reflects the full breadth of agriculture—from producers to consumers—and using reconciliation to move a partial package is a missed opportunity,” said NFU President Rob Larew.
NFU supports Senator Grassley’s amendment to close the new payment loopholes, stating it is critical to refocus support on working family farmers and ensure agricultural policy remains fair and effective.
The organization emphasized that farm policy should unify and not divide, urging legislators to recommit to building inclusive policy that strengthens rural economies, ensures food security, and supports family farming.
While the current bill represents progress in some areas, NFU believes a more balanced, long-term approach is necessary to meet the full needs of producers and consumers across the country.
The organization continues to advocate for a policy framework that works for all sectors of agriculture, emphasizing the urgency of fair and lasting reforms.