Today, the U.S. House Agriculture Committee gathers to examine the first draft of the Farm Bill in a process called a “markup.” During this session, lawmakers will debate, propose changes, and ultimately vote on whether the bill is ready to move forward. The Farm Bill determines key policies on farm funding, food assistance, and rural development for years to come. A successful markup is essential—without it, progress on these critical issues stalls. Citizens who care about agriculture and nutrition programs can act now by contacting their Representatives at this link and urging them to support moving the Farm Bill forward in committee.
House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glen Thompson has introduced an updated Farm Bill, known as Farm Bill 2.0, the first major revision since 2018. The bill aims to address significant agricultural priorities, including a legislative fix to Proposition Twelve, enhancements to disaster relief for specialty crops, improvements in dairy risk management, and increased funding for trade promotion programs. Additional measures include updated loan limits, better support for new and veteran farmers, expanded rural broadband, and stronger transparency for foreign-owned farmland. The committee markup, delayed due to weather, is expected the week of March 2nd. Lawmakers urge swift passage to provide farmers with much-needed certainty.