Continuing Resolution Offers Relief, But Farmers Deserve Better from Congress

WASHINGTON - National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew today issued this statement following the House passage of the continuing resolution, which extends the 2018 Farm Bill and provides supplemental economic and disaster assistance for family farmers and ranchers:

"After months of uncertainty, family farmers and ranchers across the country can finally take some solace in the passage of the end-of-year funding package. Congress has provided farmers with much-needed and long-overdue economic and disaster relief as they continue to grapple with mounting challenges from extreme weather, high input costs, and volatile markets. Farmers Union members fought hard for this relief.

"However, family farmers and ranchers deserve better. There was a clear bipartisan agreement that would have gone further in addressing the pressing issues confronting agriculture today. The previously negotiated agreement included several important agriculture and food security provisions, such as granting nationwide year-round sales of E15 blends of ethanol. Higher-level blends would increase market opportunities for farmers, reduce emissions, and strengthen domestic energy production. Instead, Congress allowed dysfunction to stand in the way.

"This is not just a failure of process-family farmers and ranchers should not have to navigate a system that treats their livelihoods like political collateral. Our leaders need to do better. The path forward must prioritize collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to addressing the real challenges faced by rural communities. The most effective way to demonstrate that is by delivering a comprehensive five-year farm bill at the start of 2025."