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Farm bill debate highlights Washington Watch Issues Forum

The U.S. House is debating the farm bill this week, and National Farmers Union President Rob Larew tells Brownfield the legislation needs to meet the moment.

“We’re still dealing with horrendous conditions in so much of agriculture,” he said.

Larew says NFU is encouraged by conversations in the Senate about possibly including additional farmer assistance.

However, “None of us want that. That’s not the kind of support we need. But until we can get a safety net in a farm bill that truly going to meet today’s needs, I think we need the help.”

Congress has not passed a full, five-year farm bill since 2018 and this pared down version would address federal programs not included in the legislation passed into law last year. 

Sam Kieffer, CEO of the National Association of Wheat Growers, says reliable access to credit is essential for farmers navigating tight margins.

“It costs a whole lot more to put a crop in the ground now than it did five years ago or 10 years ago,” Kieffer said. “This farm bill would increase the scope of lending available.”

The House is expected to vote on the farm bill sometime this week.

Larew and Kieffer spoke to Brownfield at the NAFB’s 2026 Washington Watch.

Rob Larew:

Sam Kieffer: