By Blake Jackson
With planting season approaching, attention turns to Congress, which faces the pressing task of finalizing a new farm bill. Despite the 2018 bill's expiration in 2023, lawmakers have yet to pass a replacement, leaving farmers and ranchers in a state of uncertainty.
A critical priority is establishing a robust safety net for agricultural producers, ensuring they have adequate programs to manage economic risks. The Missouri Farm Bureau (MOFB) urges Congress to expedite the passage of an updated farm bill.
The 2018 farm bill's second expiration on September 30, 2024, led to a temporary extension until September 30, 2025. While this extension provides some relief, it doesn't address the underlying need for a new bill. Without it, funding lapses have already affected certain programs.
Rising input costs since 2018 have rendered existing safety net programs inadequate. They no longer cover basic production costs, adding to the planning challenges for farmers. This uncertainty is compounded by regulatory issues, making long-term planning difficult.
The House Agriculture Committee's bipartisan approval of a bill in spring 2024 was a significant step. MOFB is optimistic that House Agriculture Committee Chair GT Thompson and Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Senator John Boozman will prioritize this legislation. Notably, the House bill included a provision addressing California’s Proposition 12, a measure MOFB supports.
MOFB will continue to engage with federal lawmakers, advocating for strong crop insurance, a reliable farm safety net, rural development, and practical conservation measures. These efforts are crucial to provide stability and support to the agricultural community.
The timely passage of a new farm bill is essential for farmers and ranchers to navigate the economic challenges they face. Addressing Proposition 12 is also a key component of the new legislation. The agricultural community needs a stable and predictable policy environment to thrive.
Photo Credit: missouri-farm-bureau
Categories: Missouri, Business, Government & Policy