It was supposed to be a simple continuing resolution to keep the government operating into March of 2025, but it ballooned into a 1,547 page measure that includes several provisions for agriculture, including $10 billion in aid for struggling farmers as well as a second one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill. In addition, a provision to allow the sale of 15% ethanol blended fuel year-round and nationwide was added as another benefit to help farmers.
American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall thanked Congressional leaders for their response. “The high cost of supplies, low commodity prices and out-of-reach interest rates are a recipe for farm failures without help. That’s why nearly ten thousand Farm Bureau members reached out to Congress in a matter of days, to encourage them to keep working toward a better deal and not leave agriculture behind,” said Duvall. “There is no doubt in my mind that for many farmers, the critical funding in this bill could make the difference between planting a crop next year and giving up. We appreciate that members of Congress rolled up their sleeves to ensure farmers can continue to deliver the safest, most affordable and abundant food supply in the world.”
National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew urged Congress to now pass the package. “Congress has taken an important step by including billions in immediate economic and disaster assistance for family farmers and ranchers in the end-of-year government funding package. The work isn’t done. We are counting on Congressional leaders in Washington to finalize this deal,” said Larew. “Family farmers and ranchers cannot afford any more delays, and frankly, neither can the rest of the country. Congress must see this deal through. Farmers don’t get to walk away from their obligations; Congress shouldn’t either. I urge Farmers Union members to stay vocal and keep the pressure on their elected representatives to get this done.”
Congress pass the measure and send it to the president by Friday when the continuing resolution that has been funding the government at fiscal 2024 levels since FY25 began Oct. 1 expires.