Washington Wheat Growers Call On Congress To Pass A New Farm Bill

The Washington Association of Wheat Growers is urging Congress to act after the latest extension of the 2018 Farm Bill expired Tuesday. WAWG said in a statement Thursday that the lapse creates uncertainty around federal programs supporting farm income, conservation, trade, research and rural communities.

Crop insurance remains permanently authorized, and some commodity programs continue by crop year. But other programs could face funding or administrative disruptions.

“The farm bill shapes decisions across our operations—from seed and fertilizer to financing and conservation,” said Gil Crosby, a Spokane County wheat farmer and WAWG president. “Washington growers need a dependable safety net and clear rules, not another season of uncertainty.”

"Emergency aid is no substitute for the certainty of a modern farm bill,” said Michelle Hennings, WAWG executive director. “Congress must pass a bipartisan bill that reflects today’s production costs, protects crop insurance, and sustains conservation and trade programs so family farms can remain viable.”

The group is calling for a bipartisan farm bill that protects crop insurance, supports conservation and research, and strengthens export markets as growers plan for the 2027 crop year.

WAWG calls on Congress to renew expiring authorities immediately and pass a comprehensive farm bill that strengthens the commodity safety net, protects crop insurance, supports voluntary conservation, invests in agricultural research, and expands export markets. Every delay increases risk for growers, lenders, suppliers, and rural communities across Eastern Washington.

Washington wheat growers compete in global markets while managing weather and price volatility at home. WAWG urges lawmakers to prevent further disruption and provide the long-term certainty farmers need as they plan for the 2027 crop year.