ASA Statement on $12B Farmer Bridge Assistance Program

Today, the American Soybean Association expressed gratitude to President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Rollins as they announced a plan to provide much needed assistance to U.S. soybean farmers. The new Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program will make targeted, one-time payments to row crop farmers as an "economic bridge" to the next planting season. This growing season, U.S. soybean farmers have faced a perfect storm of low crop prices, high production costs, and loss of markets. The FBA Program announced today will provide farmers with some financial assistance to help cover carried debt from the 2025 season.

"We appreciate the administration's attention to the challenges farmers continue to face in today's market," said ASA President Caleb Ragland, Kentucky farmer. "While we await additional details, we believe the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program is a positive first step to restore certainty as soybean farmers market this year's crop and plan for the 2026 planting season. We look forward to working with Congress and the administration on broader support for the farm economy, including long-term, market-driven solutions that strengthen demand for U.S. soy and allow farmers to compete and thrive in the global market."

ASA was also grateful to see farmer voices represented directly at today's announcement. Lifetime ASA member and Indiana soybean farmer Tyler Everett participated in the roundtable at the White House. Secretary Rollins visited Everett's farm in late October, and we appreciate the administration's outreach and willingness to hear directly from soybean farmers who continue to navigate ongoing market pressures.

ASA will continue to advocate for strong domestic and international markets while also working with Congress to ensure U.S. soybean farmers have the resources needed to make it to the 2026 planting season.