Farm Bill

The lawsuits argue that the arrangement creates an uneven playing field, while hemp businesses say they're following federal law.

Under the current system, producers must be the sole owner-operator of their farm or ranch to qualify for loans from the federal government. A bipartisan bill would expand the eligibility requirements for applicants.

A federal ban on most hemp-derived THC products is expected to go into effect in November. It could eliminate the most profitable market for farmers who grow hemp.

The federal funding package to reopen the government included a one-year extension of certain 2018 Farm Bill programs. Several expired Sept. 30 or would have been null by the end of the year.

The massive legislation extends tax cuts and increases safety nets for farmers who grow commodities, like corn, wheat and rice. But deep cuts to federal food assistance spending could hurt specialty growers who benefit from programs like Double Up Food Bucks.

After the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp, THC products made from the plant have grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry. Now, more state and federal lawmakers are working to limit or ban the products.

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit challenging a 40-year-old wetlands law that allows the U.S. Department of Agriculture to withhold subsidies from farmers who clear, drain or convert wetlands.

Under a 40-year-old law, the U.S. Department of Agriculture can withhold subsidies, like crop insurance and disaster payments, from farmers who clear, drain or convert wetlands. A company that owns farmland in Iowa says it’s unconstitutional.

The one-time payments could offer short-term support as many farmers grapple with less income and extreme weather.

The clock is ticking for Congress to address the expired farm bill. Several groups are urging lawmakers to get an updated bill to the finish line before the end of the year.

The extension of the 2018 Farm Bill expired in September. Pressure is mounting for Congress to pass new legislation, as tough weather and low crop prices challenge farm budgets.

Getting a new farm bill across the finish line in 2024 is likely doomed against a ticking clock, hot-button issues and election year politics.