Momentum Is Building for Agriculture

By Zippy Duvall

Lately, farmers and ranchers have had no shortage of reasons to feel frustrated. We’re facing a tough economy, rising costs and prolonged uncertainty around key policies that shape our ability to plan for the future. But in recent weeks, we’ve also seen some encouraging progress.

From progress on the farm bill to new trade agreements and growing momentum for year-round E15, there’s been meaningful movement that shows agriculture’s priorities are being heard. It doesn’t mean the work is finished, but it does mean momentum is building, and that matters.

Progress on Farm Bill

Congress has taken an important step forward on the farm bill. Last week, House Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson released updated farm bill text, and the committee is preparing to mark it up. We’re still reviewing the text of the bill, but this progress is welcome, and it shows momentum is real.

Farmers and ranchers have been waiting far too long for the certainty that only a new, modernized farm bill can provide. While the One Big Beautiful Bill Act included an essential and meaningful investment in the farm safety net, we still need a comprehensive farm bill that modernizes important farm programs. Critical policy updates in conservation, credit, research, rural development and other farm bill titles are still on the line, and delays only add more uncertainty at a time when agriculture can least afford it.