The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA), following its approval by the Senate earlier this week. Now awaiting President Trump's signature, the comprehensive reconciliation package includes sweeping measures that impact agriculture, energy, conservation, and social safety net programs. Key stakeholders in the agricultural sector are offering mixed reactions.
The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) and National Farmers Union (NFU) both welcomed elements of the bill that bolster support for U.S. farmers and ranchers, but each also voiced concerns and called for additional legislative action.
"This bill delivers significant achievements, providing critical support for America's farmers and ranchers," said ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne. "The legislation includes important provisions such as updates to the Farm Safety Net, extends the 45Z credit for clean fuel production, and makes long-term investments in conservation."
LaVigne also emphasized the need for continued work in areas like agricultural research and regulatory reform. "We urge Members of Congress to continue this forward momentum to address critical remaining regulatory and programmatic updates," he said. ASTA affirmed its commitment to working with both Congress and the administration to implement the bill and advance broader priorities for the seed industry.
National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew also praised the bill's agricultural components, saying, "We appreciate the efforts of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees to include long-overdue investments for family farmers and ranchers. The bill strengthens the farm safety net, supports biofuels and conservation, and extends key tax incentives that help keep family farm operations viable."
However, Larew expressed concern over cuts to social programs included in the bill. "These gains are paired with harmful tradeoffs. Cuts to SNAP divide the farm bill coalition and reductions in Medicaid will have harmful effects on millions of Americans," he said. "Farm policy should unite us. This approach undermines the foundation of the farm bill and puts its future at risk."
Both organizations underscored the need for a comprehensive farm bill that builds on the reconciliation package while addressing unmet priorities. "ASTA looks forward to working with Congress and the administration on implementation of the OBBBA and further meeting American agriculture and seed industry priorities through future legislation," said LaVigne.
Larew echoed that call: "Now, we urge lawmakers to build on these investments and finish the job. A comprehensive farm bill policy is still urgently needed—one that strengthens rural communities, ensures fair markets, and reflects the full scope of challenges facing today's farm families."
As Congress looks ahead to the next phase of agricultural policy, the farm sector will be watching closely to ensure that the momentum from the OBBBA translates into meaningful, lasting reforms.
Original sources: nfu.org and betterseed.org
