NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — U.S. farmers are reacting sharply to a new Federal Crop Insurance Corporation rule that would eliminate the long-standing “+5” buy-up option for prevented planting coverage, a change embedded within a broader regulatory package meant to update and streamline crop insurance policies.
The final rule — published November 28 under the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) — clarifies harvest price methodology, moves certain regional dates to Special Provisions, removes barriers to direct marketing, and updates quality-adjustment and claims procedures. But the removal of buy-up prevented-plant coverage is emerging as the most controversial portion.
Under the regulation, the eliminated buy-up would apply to crops with contract-change dates on or after November 30, 2025, meaning many 2026-planted crops will be affected. The Southwest Council of Agribusiness warns the provision appears to have been inserted by budget officials outside the USDA, estimating it would save $70 million while shifting substantial risk back onto already financially stressed producers.
The Council expects heavy opposition during the 60-day comment period and notes Congress could intervene before implementation. Producer organizations are urging farmers to file comments identifying the financial harm the change could cause amid weak margins and tightening credit conditions.
Farm-Level Takeaway: The new rule removes prevented-plant buy-up coverage, prompting strong objections from farm groups concerned about added risk exposure.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
According to the new report, seven out of ten rural bankers support President Trump’s recent trade steps with China, expressing cautious optimism about future export potential.
November 03, 2025 01:36 PM
·
Brooks York with Agri-Sompo discusses how this year’s pricing period played out and what it could mean for farmers heading into the end of the season.
November 03, 2025 12:54 PM
·
An import lag for ground beef will likely look different than last year’s egg shortage. The difference comes down to biosecurity and market flexibility.
November 03, 2025 12:07 PM
·
The WASDE/Crop Production combo will be the first full read on supply, demand, and yield that could move basis and hedging plans since the government shutdown more than a month ago.
November 03, 2025 09:34 AM
·
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) shares his outlook on the developing U.S.-China Trade agreement, and the ongoing impact of the federal government shutdown—now stretching past four weeks—on rural communities and producers.
October 31, 2025 01:35 PM
·
October 31, 2025 01:30 PM
Texas A&M livestock economist Dr. David Anderson joins Tony St. James to discuss the geopolitical tensions and U.S.-Mexico border closure that are leading to sharp swings in the cattle market.
October 31, 2025 12:50 PM
·
Rabobank’s outlook signals a tightening margin environment, emphasizing the need for cost control, trade stability, and clearer policy signals heading into 2026.
October 31, 2025 11:44 AM
·
Treat succession like any major crop — plan early, document clearly, and calibrate cash flow so the next generation can succeed.
October 31, 2025 11:21 AM
·
