Managing Current Financial Pressures in Agriculture

RFD-TV farm legal and taxation expert, Roger McOwen, joins us with his perspective on what farmers can expect from the delayed aid package.

TOPEKA, Kan. (RFD-TV) — With a government shutdown delaying a potential aid package for farmers, many in the ag sector are growing concerned about the future of the Farm Bill and the timing of federal relief efforts.

RFD-TV farm legal and taxation expert, Roger McOwen, with the Washburn School of Law, joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on what farmers can expect from the delayed aid package.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, McOwen discussed the uncertainty surrounding the relief package, noting that details may remain on hold until the shutdown is resolved. He also addressed the increasing interest among producers in agricultural liens as a financing option to cover operational costs during challenging times.

McOwen also explained the basics of how ag liens work, outlined the main categories, and clarified what happens when multiple creditors hold liens on the same property.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Understanding lien rules and prioritizing clear communication with lenders is critical to navigating the current financial pressures in agriculture.

LEARN MORE: Firm to Farm — On-Farm Processing Facilities; Ag Liens; Gifting Equipment; and Portability

Related Stories
Let’s meet an inspiring young farmer leading the Tennessee FFA this year, but now has his sights set on the National stage.
While symbolic, the WTO’s youth hackathon reflects growing calls for creative approaches to food trade and security, with potential implications for reducing losses, expanding biofuel markets, and stabilizing grain flows.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Danny Munch explains how the Emergency Livestock Relief Program application process differs from other USDA aid programs.
Understanding the Big, Beautiful Bill’s complex impact on SNAP benefits – that’s the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s legal expert, Roger McEowen.
RFD-TV Markets Expert Tony St. James breaks down the state of agribusiness and harvest progress across the U.S. for the week of Monday, September 15, 2025.
The Nashville Ag Club meets monthly to discuss current issues and hear from inspiring agriculture-related speakers.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

AFBF Economist Faith Parum discusses the financial challenges currently facing farmers and the Farm Bureau’s 2026 outlook for the farm economy.
From tariff talks in Europe to SCOTUS uncertainty and rising farm losses, analysts say policy and global supply will shape grain markets in the year ahead.
Ethanol and corn groups are not hiding their disappointment over new reports that the bill to allow year-round E15 sales failed as Congress forges ahead on government funding, with another shutdown looming.
While row crops are expected to see softer impacts, analysts say severe weather of this magnitude will not be as kind to cattle producers.
Cape Cod FarmHER Chloe Starr dives into the world of shellfish farming at one of the few oyster & clam hatcheries in the U.S.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to discuss seasonal affective disorder, winter mental health, and practical strategies for maintaining well-being in rural communities.