Farmers Pressure Congress to Pass Updated Farm Bill Amid Financial Concerns

Congress is facing pressure from farmers to pass an updated Farm Bill before its September 30 expiration date. Matt Frostic, First Vice President of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), says that another year of delay would be a financial burden for farmers.

Frostic emphasizes that the consequences of inaction won't stop at the farm gate, but will have a ripple effect on industries and financial institutions. He notes that the current Farm Bill is set to expire soon, and farmers are already feeling the squeeze from high input costs and compressed commodity prices.

Corn growers are looking for opportunities in the Senate's Farm Bill proposal, particularly permanent year-round E15, which would expand access to a higher-ethanol blend. This could provide a rare win for both consumers and agriculture, giving people another fuel choice while boosting demand for U.S.-grown corn.

Frostic urges farmers to make contact with their senators and staff, citing that grassroots pressure can be an effective way to bring attention to the issue. He emphasizes that lawmakers notice when a large number of farmers speak up, making it harder for them to ignore the need for action.