Ag Appropriations Clears The House

On Thursday, the House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill.  Supporters of the legislation say the measure strengthens America’s food supply by supporting farmers and ranchers, while making key investments in rural communities.

The bill also includes $5 million for the USDA-ARS and University of Idaho’s Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project.

Backers say the legislation continues to support agricultural research, rural development, loan programs, and animal and plant health initiatives.

Idaho’s Mike Simpson, who voted in favor of the bill added it will also address foreign ownership of American agricultural land, roll back certain Biden-era livestock and poultry regulations, and supports Trump Administration public health priorities.

Following passage, House Ag Chairman G.T. Thompson noted:

"After a markup that lasted over 20 hours, the legislation reflects the will of the committee, and it is filled with bipartisan provisions that will move the needle for farmers, ranchers, and rural Americans across the country.

"Throughout this markup, it became clearer than ever before that our country needs a new farm bill, and we don’t need it next year, or next Congress. We need it now,” Thompson said.

The funding package now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

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