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
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
January 14, 2026 01:49 PM
·
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
January 14, 2026 12:17 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses the latest developments in the Supreme Court, trade tariffs, and the future of the USMCA under President Donald Trump.
January 14, 2026 11:54 AM
·
The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
January 14, 2026 11:19 AM
·
A high-stakes legal case in a South Dakota federal court concerning misleading country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL), such as “Product of the USA,” on food products, will significantly impact U.S. agricultural policy for years to come.
January 14, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Agronomy experts explain why standing crop residue protects soil and reduces costs for crop growers, while shredding often yields little benefit at higher costs.
January 14, 2026 08:00 AM
·
