U.S. House Agriculture Committee advances new farm bill, one step closer in advancing farm policy

The U.S. House Committee on Agriculture has advanced the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, sending the proposed legislation to the full House of Representatives for consideration and marking a significant step toward updating U.S. farm policy.

The roughly 800-page bill moved forward after more than 20 hours of debate and was advanced under the leadership of committee chairman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson. Lawmakers say the legislation aims to strengthen farm safety net programs and nutrition assistance while addressing gaps created after last year’s sweeping domestic policy package signed by Donald Trump. The farm bill, traditionally renewed every five years, has not been updated since 2018.

Industry organizations welcomed the committee’s approval. Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology President and CEO Terry Kippley said a new farm bill is essential for farmers and the agricultural supply chain, supporting programs related to risk management, conservation, research, and access to crop protection technologies. The group noted that post-patent crop protection products and related technologies help farmers maintain productivity while advancing environmental goals.

Supporters in Congress said the legislation includes new provisions aimed at helping new farmers enter the industry, supporting family farm succession, and expanding export markets with roughly $60 billion in proposed trade investments. At the same time, some lawmakers raised concerns about cuts to food aid and challenges facing farmers, including labor shortages, trade tensions, and declining crop prices.

With committee approval secured, the bill now moves to the House floor, where lawmakers will decide whether to pass the measure and move it forward in the broader legislative process.

Sources: AgroPages, Spectrum News