Congress Moves Forward with New Farm Bill
The One Big Beautiful Bill helped U.S. agriculture with an investment of approximately $66 billion in essential farm programs. This included modernizing safety net programs, extending commodity support, and raising reference prices for key crops. However, the job isn't complete.
Brian Glenn, Director of Government Affairs at the American Farm Bureau Federation, highlighted that the bill's $60 billion focus on risk management modernizations is crucial. This funding extends key commodity programs until 2031 and increases premium support for beginning farmers and ranchers. But there’s still more to be done.
"Many critical programs still need updating through a new farm bill," Glenn said. Among the most pressing needs are the reauthorization of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and continued support for rural broadband expansion under the rural development title. Additionally, funding for agricultural research and extension programs remains a priority.
Glenn also pointed out that Congress is working to resolve policy gaps. "Securing a fix to Proposition 12 and other important policy updates is a priority," he said.
Currently, Chairman GT Thompson of the House Agriculture Committee is drafting the next farm bill, which will address these critical issues. Both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees are actively conducting hearings and plan to move the bill forward this fall.
As farmers and ranchers await the completion of this important legislation, it’s clear that the next farm bill will be vital in shaping the future of U.S. agriculture.
Photo Credit: american-farm-bureau-federation