The journey of the farm bill

Understand the legislation’s current obstacles and potential paths to the president’s desk.

BY LUKE REYNOLDS

August 21, 2024

Congress is in the process of considering reauthorization of the farm bill, an essential five-year omnibus bill that governs a vast array of agricultural, conservation and food programs in the United States. With the 2018 Farm Bill extended until Sept. 30, 2024, a new bill has faced a complex journey through the legislative process from committee approvals to presidential signature. Each stage in this journey is crucial for shaping policies that impact farm safety net programs, conservation efforts and nutrition assistance. The outcome will have significant impact on the tools producers have available for risk management, precision technology and technical and financial assistance for conservation. As policymakers plot the path forward, the stakes are high for farmers, consumers and the broader agricultural industry.

Key dates:

Last scheduled legislative day before elections: Sept. 27
Farm bill expiration: Sept. 30, 2024. While many farm programs will technically expire Sept. 30, the practical impact of this won’t be felt until the end of the year.
Election day: Nov. 5.
End of the year: Dec. 31. Congress will either need to pass a new farm bill or another short-term extension.

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