(Washington D.C.) This week marks a significant moment for the U.S. House of Representatives as it turns its attention to the farm bill. The most recent version, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, was signed into law on December 20, 2018. Since farm bills are typically renewed every five years, a new one had originally been expected around 2023.
Farm Credit Council President and Chief Executive Officer Christy Seyfert tell’s KSOM/Ks95 News at the NAFB gathering of Farm Broadcasters in Washington D.C., this bill is unique in that it has taken a different path.
Most notably, this draft legislation includes policies to modernize Farm Service Agency (FSA) loan limits and programs, expand access to credit for young and beginning producers, and strengthen rural communities by offering additional financing options for essential community facilities like hospitals and community care centers.
The “Credit Title” in the 2026 Farm Bill would make easier qualifications, faster loan processing, more support for beginning farmers, and a stronger emphasis on access to capital, and easier qualification. Seyfert says the rules committee met on Monday, (April 28). She says the expectation is the U.S. House will take up the Farm bill and vote on it possibly on Thursday. Seyfert says this would be an important first step in the process.
Again, that is Christy Seyfert, Farm Credit Council Chief Executive Officer.
