Dems Warn Farm Bill at Risk from Food Aid Cuts, Farmers Struggle Amid USDA Tariffs

Recent federal funding cuts and the proposed end to programs like the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LFPA) are placing significant strain on both food banks and local farmers across several states. Lawmakers and food aid organizations warn that reductions to nutrition programs such as SNAP and LFPA could jeopardize the passage of the farm bill and critically undermine support for low-income families, while also hurting farmers who rely on these partnerships. Maryland and Illinois farmers express concern over lost business opportunities and the inability to plan for the future, as the USDA’s shifting policies and funding freezes make their operations less stable. Food banks, including those in Clark County and Maryland, are bracing for reduced capacity, with some already serving fewer people or shifting to less nutritious offerings due to fewer available products. The uncertainty is further compounded by the potential economic fallout from new tariffs, which could increase demand at food pantries just as resources are being cut. Lawmakers like Senators Chris Van Hollen, Cory Booker, and Dick Durbin are highlighting these challenges and proposing legislation to restore stability and support for both farmers and food-insecure Americans.