The Farm Bill

A recent analysis by the American Farm Bureau Federation highlights the severe consequences of Congress failing to modernize the 2018 farm bill, predicting a loss of family farms and a decrease in the U.S.'s food production capabilities. Concerns are also rising about the EATS Act, which could grant increased control of U.S. agriculture to Chinese-owned companies, raising national security alarms as it undermines local authority and threatens food sovereignty. The necessity for a robust farm safety net is underscored, with only 13% of farms enrolled in crop insurance due to accessibility barriers, particularly for smaller and diversified farmers. Meanwhile, at a food security conference in Israel, industry leaders warned of an existential threat to agriculture, exacerbated by workforce reductions due to conflict, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and local production. Both the U.S. and Israeli contexts reflect a critical need for agricultural resilience to ensure food security amidst various threats. Thus, the upcoming farm bill discussions are pivotal in addressing these multifaceted challenges.