Progress in Washington for this year’s Farm Bill is nearing a halt, but that has not stopped ag groups from letting lawmakers know their priorities.
Ted McKinney, President of NASDA, says the U.S. is falling behind in funding for ag research and trade programs. He tells Brownfield Ag News spending on land grant institutions has been a low priority in the last two Farm Bills, and he feels that has led to a decline in new talent for the food and ag sector.
NASDA members are also calling for more market access and development. McKinney says that is the only way to level the playing field around the world.
Related Stories
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer shares his perspective on the uncertain outlook of federal farm relief and the Farm Bill, which may not materialize until the government shutdown ends.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent last week said an announcement would be made on Tuesday. However, that self-imposed deadline has now passed.
Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.
Farmers are in the midst of harvest as the government descends into a shutdown and the Farm Bill expires. Key federal departments, crop reporting, and aid programs important to the agricultural sector are now on hold.
Estate tax relief reduces pressure, but succession planning remains the critical challenge for farm families.
