WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — The House is moving forward with debate on the Farm Bill after a lengthy session in the House Rules Committee cleared the legislation for floor consideration. House members, like Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN), are more than ready to debate these important agriculture issues.
“Related to the Farm Bill, the Rules Committee had the opportunity to improve this legislation, which falls way short of the five-year, 12-title Farm Bill that we should be here discussing today,” Craig said. “We should have addressed the tariffs that are bankrupting America’s family farmers, folks. Farm bankruptcies are up 50% across this country. During the Iran war, it’s increased fertilizer costs. It’s increased diesel prices. This is not putting America’s farmers first.”
Lawmakers opted to hold a stand-alone vote on an amendment that would remove a pesticide-labeling provision from the bill. At the same time, the committee rejected an effort to strip language blocking state-level animal welfare laws, keeping the controversial Proposition 12 issue in the legislation.
"[The Farm Bill], H.R. 7567, bolsters the future of American agriculture by improving access to farm credit, especially for those beginning young and small farmers,” said Rep. Austin Scott on the House Floor on Wednesday. “This Farm Bill ensures they have the capital they need to build and sustain their operations. Mr. Speaker, this bill is centered on affordability and is a win for rural America. Investments in broadband, childcare, health care, workforce, and aging critical water and infrastructure projects strengthen our rural communities and give them the support to thrive in the years to come. The Farm Food National Security Act of 2026 delivers for our producers, strengthens our rural communities, and protects the security of America’s food supply.”
The National Pork Producers Council praised that decision, saying in a statement, “Pork producers thank Chairwoman Virginia Foxx and Chairman G.T. Thompson for standing up for our livelihoods.”
Separately, lawmakers are preparing for a stand-alone vote on year-round E15 ethanol sales, which could later be folded into the broader Farm Bill. The push comes as some in Congress, including Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), urge swift passage, citing financial stress across farm country.
Despite procedural hurdles and ongoing debate over costs and SNAP provisions, agricultural groups remain optimistic that the bill could clear the House in the coming days.
