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
Fair market value shapes taxes, transitions, lending, and sales, making accurate valuation essential for long-term planning.
December 01, 2025 11:21 AM
·
Former Market Day Report anchor Janet Adkison was inducted into the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Hall of Fame, recognizing over 20 years of service sharing stories that impact Rural America.
November 25, 2025 02:43 PM
·
Jake Charleston, with Specialty Risk Insurance, joins us now for an industry update and advice for cattle producers as they consider options for managing the risks of a murky market.
November 25, 2025 01:26 PM
·
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
November 25, 2025 01:09 PM
·
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
November 25, 2025 12:40 PM
·
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
November 25, 2025 12:05 PM
·
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, provides the latest insight into the timing, expectations, and broader considerations of the potential aid package, despite increasing exports to China.
November 24, 2025 12:42 PM
·
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen reviews the history of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule and outlines how shifting definitions across multiple administrations have created regulatory confusion for landowners.
November 24, 2025 12:38 PM
·
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) estimates that the move will save farmers and ranchers $2.5 billion each year. The group warns that new methods for calculating the adverse-effect wage rate would result in lower pay for foreign workers.
November 24, 2025 11:32 AM
·
