Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Jackson, Brownley, and Salinas Reintroduce the “Empowering Women in Agriculture Act of 2026”

Historically, women, who represent just over a third of U.S. farmers, have faced significant barriers when seeking farm loans, including rejection, unfair terms, and excessive supervision. A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report commissioned by the 2018 Farm Bill reveals that women make up a disproportionately small percentage of agricultural producers, with many reporting discrimination in accessing agricultural credit. The report also confirms that female farmers receive a disproportionately low number of USDA loans.

"The Empowering Women in Agriculture Actis not just a bill, it's a call to action," said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. "Women are already a key driving force in our agricultural economy. In Florida alone, women serve as the principal producers on 41 percent of all farms. Yet despite their longstanding leadership and invaluable contributions, too many women farmers continue to face barriers to accessing the resources, credit, and federal programs they need to succeed."

This legislation helps ensure that targeted funding and support reach the women who are feeding our communities and strengthening rural economies. After visiting a farm in my district, I can personally attest to just how vital agriculture is to Florida's economy. Farms and agricultural enterprises drive economic growth, create jobs, and generate billions of dollars in revenue for our state each year.

The Empowering Women in AgricultureActseeks to amend the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (FARM Bill) to address these critical gaps by:

• Mandating that at least 10% of federal funds be allocated specifically to women-focused organizations

• Including women in the definition of "socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher" within Title 7 U.S. Code § 2279

• Enhancing equitable access to funding and resources for organizations serving disadvantaged farmers and

• Promoting gender equity by boosting opportunities for female farmers.

"The underrepresentation of Black women in agriculture - women who have long been the backbone of America's farming communities - is no accident," said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson. "Undoing generations of discrimination and lost opportunity demands bold legislation, and that is why I am proud to co-lead the Empowering Women in Agriculture Act with Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick. Women and minorities should not face barriers to federal programs designed to level the playing field, and this legislation will bring us one step closer to ensuring they have the support, access, and resources they deserve," said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson.

"Ventura County has a rich agricultural history that continues to power our local economy and shape the character of our community," said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. "Women have long played a vital role and continue to sustain and strengthen agriculture in Ventura County and across California, from leading farming operations and managing family-owned businesses to advancing innovation and sustainability across the industry. Their leadership is essential to the long-term success of the agriculture sector in our region and our state. As the agriculture industry evolves, we must ensure that opportunity keeps pace and that every thriving industry reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. The Empowering Women in Agriculture Act is an important step toward expanding opportunity, supporting our workforce, and building a more inclusive and resilient agricultural future."