By Andi Anderson
America’s farmers and ranchers are facing a serious economic crisis. Falling crop prices, rising input costs, and trade uncertainties have pushed many farms to the edge. More than half of U.S. farms now lose money each year, threatening food security and rural livelihoods.
In response, the American Farm Bureau Federation has issued an Action Alert, urging Congress and President Trump to take immediate steps to stabilize the farm economy. The Ohio Farm Bureau is actively encouraging its members to contact their representatives and demand action before the end of 2025.
Policymakers are being asked to authorize bridge payments to provide short-term financial relief to farmers. These payments would help producers survive while long-term reforms are developed. The Farm Bureau also calls for enforcement of fair trade agreements and restoration of reliable market access for U.S. products.
Other key demands include:
- Reconsidering beef imports that may threaten domestic food independence.
- Supporting biofuels through year-round sales of E15 and other renewable fuels.
- Restoring whole milk in schools to boost dairy demand.
- Protecting interstate commerce from conflicting state regulations.
- Investigating agricultural input pricing for fairness and transparency.
- Prioritizing American-grown fruits and vegetables in federal food programs.
Ohio Farm Bureau leaders stress that every farm lost means fewer jobs, weaker rural economies, and increased reliance on foreign supply chains. They believe swift action is needed to preserve the future of American agriculture.
Farmers, ranchers, and supporters are encouraged to act now by contacting their members of Congress. The goal is to secure both immediate relief and long-term stability for the farming community.
For more information or to participate in the Action Alert, members can visit the Ohio Farm Bureau website and use the “Take Action” tools provided.
Photo Credit: ohio-farm-bureau
Categories: Ohio, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle