Letters to the Editor

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To the Editor:

The failure of Congress to pass a new farm bill -- or even extend the current one -- is not just political gamesmanship; it's a devastating blow to farmers, rural communities, those living in poverty, and ultimately all Americans. As the National Grange President, I am profoundly disappointed by Congress's inability to unite and renew this critical piece of legislation. The consequences of this inaction are far-reaching, and the ripple effects will be felt across our nation, from the most rural areas to our largest cities.

Farmers are the backbone of our nation's food system, and when a farm bill lapses, so too does the certainty farmers need to plan for the future. The 2018 farm bill was a comprehensive bipartisan piece of legislation that included provisions for crop insurance, conservation programs, and disaster relief -- all of which provided a safety net to farmers facing volatile markets and unpredictable weather. With its expiration, farmers now face increased uncertainty, which can lead to reduced food production and higher consumer prices.

We had hoped for a new bill that would address the evolving challenges of modern agriculture, but instead, Congress has left rural America hanging. No new bill. No extension. No ability to show that Congress is truly working for or caring about the people who voted for them. This is a disservice not only to farmers but also to the entire rural economy, which relies on farm bill-funded initiatives, including broadband expansion, rural development, and healthcare programs. The longer this impasse lasts, the more rural America falls behind, widening the gap between rural and urban prosperity.

It's not just farmers who are hurt by this failure. The farm bill also encompasses essential programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps millions of Americans -- especially families, seniors, and children -- avoid hunger. For many in both rural and urban areas, SNAP is the difference between having a meal on the table or going hungry. By allowing the farm bill to expire without a new one in place, Congress is putting the most vulnerable Americans at risk. These families are already struggling to make ends meet as inflation drives up the cost of food and essentials. Failing to renew the farm bill or extend it is nothing short of negligence.

The National Grange is deeply disappointed that Congress has failed to reach a bipartisan agreement on either a new farm bill or a meaningful extension. The 2018 farm bill was a remarkable example of what can be achieved when lawmakers work together. It provided comprehensive support not only for farmers and ranchers but also for conservationists, rural communities, and those needing food assistance.

The current political gridlock is unacceptable -- especially when it directly hurts constituents who deserve better from their elected officials. Farmers, ranchers, and rural communities cannot be left to fend for themselves while Congress delays action. Americans struggling with food insecurity cannot afford to wait for political games to end before they receive the help they need.

The National Grange, along with millions of Americans, expects better from our leaders. This is not an issue of red versus blue; it is an issue of feeding our nation, protecting our land, and supporting the communities that keep our country running.

We call on our elected leaders on the House and Senate Agriculture Committees to rise above partisan politics and come together in the best interest of the country. The time for action is now. We urge Congress to work swiftly toward a new farm bill that meets the needs of modern agriculture and addresses the food security, environmental, and economic challenges of today. If that cannot be done quickly, then Congress must at least pass an extension of the 2018 farm bill to prevent further harm to farmers and struggling families.

We cannot afford to wait any longer. Each day without a farm bill or an extension deepens the uncertainty and pain for farmers, rural Americans, and those in poverty. The National Grange is ready to work with lawmakers from both parties to ensure that the next farm bill addresses the challenges of the 21st century. We urge Congress to act with urgency and to restore faith in the legislative process by passing a bipartisan plan that works for everyone -- before more damage is done.

Christine E. Hamp

National Grange President

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