Agriculture Spending Bills Must Address Broad Demand for Research and Conservation Programs
On June 11, 2024, the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee advanced the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2025 on a party-line vote. The bill – which provides Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 funding for the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – totals $ 25.9 billion, which is 1.35% – or nearly $ 400 million – below the FY2024 enacted level. The cuts included in the bill would have significant consequences across the US food and farm system – impacting farmers, ranchers, communities, and eaters from coast to coast.
Now more than ever farmers need research and technical assistance tailored to their operation types. Climate change makes farming harder and less predictable, underscoring the need for research and assistance that supports climate resilience. Farmers also need expanded …