By Jamie Martin
The House has passed H.R.1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a major farm bill that aims to provide stability and long-term support to U.S. agriculture.
The bill reauthorizes key programs through 2031, combining commodity support, conservation efforts, rural investment, and tax relief.
A key part of the bill enhances the farm safety net. Programs like Price Loss Coverage (PLC), Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC), and Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) are extended.
Reference prices for commodities are increased, and ARC coverage improves with better revenue protection. Farmers can voluntarily align base acres and benefit from improved loan rates.
Crop insurance is also expanded. Beginning farmers can now qualify for higher premium support over 10 years. A new poultry insurance product is introduced, and the bill supports weather and disease risks for producers.
On conservation, the bill redirects Inflation Reduction Act funds to strengthen EQIP, CSP, and ACEP. While it cuts some forestry grants, it supports programs like feral swine control and water protection through 2031.
Rural development also gets a boost. Funding continues for rural schools, biofuels, energy programs, and infrastructure improvements.
Specialty crop producers and organic growers gain from increased research, pest management, and cost-share assistance.
The bill creates a new Agricultural Trade Promotion Program with $285 million in annual funding to boost U.S. exports, effectively doubling trade promotion efforts.
The tax section offers relief for farmers. It raises estate tax exemptions to $15 million, expands business expensing, and extends bonus depreciation. Qualified Business Income deductions increase to 23% for pass-through entities starting in 2026.
Livestock disease prevention receives a significant investment of $233 million annually. USDA is also required to survey dairy processing costs to ensure fair milk pricing.
As stated by Farm Bureau, “H.R.1 represents a meaningful step toward securing the tools farmers and ranchers need to navigate today’s volatile economic landscape.”
With the Senate yet to act, agriculture stakeholders hope this version’s critical investments remain intact.
Categories: National