Key Points:
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The farm bill has expired once again, causing disruptions in agricultural spending programs as Congress failed to take action on a yearlong extension.
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Political disagreements over key aspects of the bill, such as crop insurance, climate-smart agriculture, and food assistance programs, are delaying its passage.
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Expiration of the farm bill also affects USDA’s conservation and trade programs, with potential costlier disruptions expected in the future.
Insight:
Congress is likely to address the $1 trillion farm bill later this year, post-election, during the lame duck session, after it expired two years ago.
Enrollments for USDA’s conservation programs have expired, impacting programs like the Conservation Reserve Program and trade promotion initiatives.
Future effects of the expiration may lead to reverting back to older farm bill laws, affecting subsidy programs and commodity prices, prompting calls for urgent action from agricultural groups.
Agricultural stakeholders are urging Congress to strengthen farm policy to support farmers facing economic challenges and uncertainty.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighted the farm bill as a priority for Democrats in the upcoming session, emphasizing the need to support farmers, address climate issues, and meet the needs of the public.