Cedar Rapids Today

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) and Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) have called on House GOP leadership to advance a new farm bill. In a letter signed by 140 members of the House Republican Conference, they emphasized the urgent need for updated agricultural policies to replace those from the 2018 Farm Bill.

“Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill,” stated the Members. They pointed out that inflation has driven production costs to record highs while commodity prices have dropped significantly, creating financial pressure on farm families. Farm debt now stands at $540 billion, the highest ever both nominally and when adjusted for inflation.

The Members believe that H.R. 8467—The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024—offers necessary reforms and investments across all 12 titles of the Farm Bill. This bipartisan legislation was advanced by the House Committee on Agriculture on May 24th this year.

They warned that failing to act would negatively impact not only farms but also Main Street businesses, rural communities, and the national economy. “We respectfully urge that the enactment of H.R. 8467, or similar legislation that makes meaningful investments in farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, is among the top priorities of the Republican Conference,” concluded their letter.

Congresswoman Hinson highlighted her efforts: “I led 139 of my colleagues – the majority of the House Republican Conference – in calling for Republican House leadership to bring the Farm Bill up for a vote as soon as possible.” She stressed that food security is national security and urged Congress to support farmers without delay.

Congressman Alford echoed these sentiments: “We are honored to stand alongside 139 of my colleagues to lead a letter that shows House leadership that Republicans are committed to passing a Farm Bill.” He noted rising production costs and declining farm income as critical issues requiring immediate action.

In addition to Representatives Hinson and Alford, other signatories include U.S. Representatives Robert Aderholt, Rick Allen, Mark Amodei, Kelly Armstrong, Jodey Arrington, Brian Babin, Don Bacon, James Baird, Troy Balderson, Jim Banks, Andy Barr, Cliff Bentz, Jack Bergman, Stephanie Bice, Gus Bilirakis, Dan Bishop, Lauren Boebert among others.

The current Farm Bill expires this year after being extended in 2023. The proposed new legislation aims to provide continued support for producers with significant reforms across various sectors of agriculture.