Cotton Growers: Farmers need the Farm Bill

Congress will return to Washington on Tuesday, where they will consider the Farm Act. With no Farm Bill on the books, it was introduced to give farmers financial help.

Cotton growers say farmers need the support.

“And so we want to provide kind of a three-legged stool to bridge some of this gap moving forward from financial assistance to help mend the ag community, so we can continue to be helpful in developing food and fiber in the near term to come, and not have attrition if we do not see any of these avenues move forward. We see one stool that is lagging, and we will see attrition in the industry, be it producers or infrastructure at that most and that’s that’s unacceptable at this point,” said Kody Bessent.

The Farm Act could cost as much as $21 billion, which some analysts say will be a tough sell. Some lawmakers say the hefty price tag could complicate Farm Bill talks, which are still in progress.

Related Stories
A slimmed-down Farm Bill is back on the table in Washington, with lawmakers pushing for a deal by Fall 2025. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas weighs in with his outlook.
A group of 32 Democratic senators is urging ag lawmakers to halt their opposition to Prop 12 in the next Farm Bill.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.