Tax Cut Expiration Threatens Farm Economy

Agriculture Sector Urges Lawmakers to Act on Tax Extensions

As the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) approaches its 2025 expiration, farmers are sounding the alarm over the financial pressure they may face if key tax provisions are not extended.

The farming sector is already battling high production costs, and a rise in taxes would be another blow. Without extension, these taxes will increase business expenses, leaving farmers with fewer resources to maintain and grow their operations.

The tax cuts were originally created to boost business investment and encourage growth in sectors like agriculture.

If allowed to lapse, estimates show the agriculture industry could lose 49,000 jobs. This would mean a $3 billion drop in wages and a potential $10 billion loss in wider economic activity.

The broader implications include less spending in rural communities and slower farm equipment purchases, land improvements, and hiring. Higher taxes would also reduce farmers’ ability to reinvest in their local economies and support their workforce.

Although some legislative progress has occurred in the House to make these provisions permanent, the process remains incomplete. Senate approval is needed to protect farmers from the looming tax increase and provide long-term certainty.

The agriculture industry depends on stability to manage risk, plan for the future, and stay competitive in a global market. Letting the TCJA provisions expire would set back years of investment and progress.

Congress is being urged to act quickly to renew these provisions and secure the future of farming and rural development. Without this, the risk of job loss and reduced economic activity remains a serious concern.