Illinois farmer and NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr. described the situation as “a four-alarm fire,” calling for Congress to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025. This bill would allow year-round sales of E15, a fuel blend with 15 percent ethanol, and help create new markets for corn.
"These findings point to a once-in a generation problem for the agricultural economy," said NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson.
"The survey findings suggest that this crisis could have a long reach, affecting every area of the economy, as farmers are less likely to make purchases and will certainly make budget cuts that could affect their local communities."
Economists added that rising interest rates make loans more expensive and repayment harder, further limiting farmers’ options.
A separate NCGA study showed that full nationwide adoption of year-round E15 could add $25.8 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product, support 128,000 jobs, and absorb surplus corn production.
Corn growers are visiting Capitol Hill this week to press lawmakers for action. Founded in 1957, NCGA represents more than 36,000 members and advocates for over 500,000 corn farmers across the United States.