Farm Bill

Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall, a Republican in a solidly GOP state, is locked in a close reelection bid in part because of his support for President Donald Trump's trade wars, tariffs and war with Iran. The race is a toss-up and could go to Democrat Adam Hamilton.

Kansas farmers have faced significant challenges due to the Trump administration’s tariffs, which drove up equipment costs and caused crop prices to fall. The Kansas Farmer’s Union says the tariffs contributed to the closure of hundreds of farms and added stress to an already unpredictable industry.

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.