URBANA, Ill. (RFD News) — Farmers have received Ad Hoc support payments for several years, dating back to the first Trump administration.
University of Illinois economist Gary Schnitkey says that assistance has been critical, but producers should prepare in case those payments eventually come to an end.
“You don’t see that happening because we are talking about another round of Ad Hoc payments. If that happened, costs would need to adjust down, and that would include cash rents. Again, that’s not likely given the current political environment, but it is the risk that is out there.”
Before leaving for its August recess, the House passed a budget framework that includes $12 billion in additional farmer aid.
The Senate must now consider the package.
Officials say stakeholder input will help shape a new Waters of the U.S. definition.
Washburn University law professor Roger McEowen says the H-2A visa program follows a different federal payroll framework than domestic agricultural labor.
ASFMRA’s Chad Hertz also discusses farmland leasing strategies, common negotiation mistakes, and considerations for balancing rental income with long-term tenant relationships.
Tractor rental and application services saw the largest increases, with tillage, planting, harvesting, and spraying costs all rising sharply.
Watch whether higher livestock costs and uneven input prices continue squeezing 2026 returns.
Consumers may see moderate overall inflation while still facing large swings across meat, produce, and eggs.
