TOPEKA, Kan. (RFD-TV) — The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) makes significant improvements to federal crop insurance provisions for beginning farmers and ranchers. However, legal experts say that underlying regulatory rules could create complications—particularly when it comes to estate planning for family-owned businesses.
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert, Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to break down the changes and explain what producers should know.
In his interview with RFD-TV News, McEowen outlined the OBBBA’s expanded definition of a “beginning farmer or rancher” (BFR) and walked through key provisions aimed at improving access to federal crop insurance.
He also highlighted the role of the USDA’s Risk Management Agency in maintaining the integrity of the crop insurance program, noting how its stance on eligibility requirements may affect families transitioning their farm or ranch to the next generation.
McEowen stressed the importance of understanding these new rules early on, emphasizing that the regulatory hurdles could influence long-term estate planning strategies. He closed by sharing practical advice for farmers and ranchers to prepare for the changes and take full advantage of the benefits available under the updated program.
To read more of Roger’s in-depth analysis on the OBBBA’s impacts on crop insurance and estate planning, click the link below:
Firm to Farm: Crop Insurance and BFR and RMA
Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening joined us with the latest update on storm conditions and impacts across the state.
January 26, 2026 04:30 PM
·
Mike Knotts with the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association joined us with the latest on storm impacts, power restoration, and safety considerations following the ice storm.
January 26, 2026 04:00 PM
·
Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us with his outlook on crop insurance and risk management following the recent winter storm that tore through most of the United States, including the Midwest.
January 26, 2026 03:30 PM
·
Year-round E15 remains on the table, but procedural caution and competing regional interests pushed action into a slower, negotiated path.
January 26, 2026 01:33 PM
·
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council published a joint press release regarding the advancement of legislation to delist the Mexican Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species Act.
January 23, 2026 05:05 PM
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
January 23, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.
January 23, 2026 02:00 PM
·
Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
January 23, 2026 01:54 PM
·
Pennsylvania Farm Show scholarship recipient Elizabeth Dice discusses her award, her background in farming, and her path forward in the agriculture industry.
January 23, 2026 01:48 PM
·
