UGA Forecast Highlights Changes to Farm Bill Timeline Under H.R. 1
At the University of Georgia Agricultural Forecast hearing last week, economists discussed how congressional action this year has altered the traditional Farm Bill timeline. Typically, Congress renews the Farm Bill every five years, setting a single expiration date for dozens of farm and nutrition programs. However, the passage of H.R. 1 has changed that familiar process.
Unlike previous Farm Bills, H.R. 1 does not follow the standard five-year cycle. Instead, each section of the legislation carries its own expiration date. That structure means lawmakers will be required to revisit and reconsider different agricultural and nutrition policies on separate schedules rather than through one comprehensive renewal.
To ensure continuity for key programs, Congress also passed what is known as a Continuing Resolution, or C.R. A Continuing Resolution is a short-term funding measure that extends existing programs when long-term legislation is not yet finalized. In this case, the C.R. extends certain farm and nutrition programs through September 30, 2026.
This approach has created uncertainty across the agricultural sector, as producers and industry stakeholders closely watch what Congress may address next. With programs operating on staggered timelines, there is concern about which policies may come up for debate first and how future changes could impact the farm economy.
Economists speaking at the UGA forecast emphasized that the current structure gives lawmakers additional time to consider agricultural policy as they move forward. Most economists expressed hope that Congress will eventually return to the traditional Farm Bill cycle, restoring the predictability that producers have relied on for decades.
Until that happens, H.R. 1 and the Continuing Resolution are effectively serving as a bridge for the farm economy. They allow programs to continue operating while policymakers work through the next phase of agricultural legislation.
The takeaway from the forecast is clear: while short-term measures are keeping programs in place, significant policy discussions lie ahead. For farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses, the coming months will be critical as Congress begins shaping the next round of agricultural policy decisions.
Audio Reporting by Tyron Spearman for Southeast AgNet.