Tight budget deadline poses risks for agriculture

Congress must resolve funding issues to support farmers

With just two weeks remaining to pass a new budget, Congress is engaged in a tense funding battle that could lead to a government shutdown. September 30 marks the end of fiscal year 2024, and the urgency to secure funding is mounting.

The appropriations process is essential for funding most federal agencies on an annual basis. So far, the House has managed to pass several individual funding bills, but the Senate has not yet advanced any legislation. This stalemate is particularly concerning as the election year limits the available time for legislative work.

Currently, a continuing resolution is anticipated to prevent a shutdown, but agreement between the House and Senate remains elusive.

The House aims for a resolution funding the government through March 2025, whereas the Senate prefers a shorter resolution that would push discussions to December.

Achieving government funding is a critical first step in allowing Congress to tackle a list of essential legislation. By securing funding beyond the September 30 deadline, lawmakers can then focus on updating the farm safety net, which is crucial for helping farmers manage risk and ensuring a stable food supply for the nation.

If Congress cannot resolve its budget issues, efforts to advance agricultural policies may stall, further complicating the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers.

As the deadline approaches, it is imperative for Congress to prioritize agricultural funding and policy development to safeguard the future of farming in the U.S.