Later today, Congress will begin marking up bills for the budget reconciliation, and there is a lot at stake for the ag sector as both chambers have been tasked with cutting billions of dollars.
The Senate Budget Committee is looking at cutting around $5 billion over the next decade, with a billion of that coming from agriculture. House leaders say they will reject that plan, insisting their own bill addresses each of President Trump’s agenda items.
A recent budget release from the White House shows the House Ag Committee must cut $230 billion over the next ten years. It also calls for $100 billion in new military spending, with $90 billion for border security.
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NCBA CEO Colin Woodall says more conversations need to occur with stakeholders present surrounding President Trump’s proposal to lower consumer beef prices with Argentinian imports.
API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
