Congress Struggles to Extend Farm Bill Aid

Federal lawmakers are struggling to finalize a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government ahead of a looming deadline, with economic assistance for farmers being a key point of contention. Republican leaders propose a $12 billion aid package for farmers, while Democrats counter with a $10 billion plan that includes increased conservation spending, both of which remain unapproved. The failure to pass a new farm bill has led to extensions of the 2018 legislation, causing frustration among lawmakers who feel that farmers need the certainty of a new agreement. Both parties are blaming each other for the deadlock, with agricultural leaders warning of severe market pressures on farmers if assistance is not included. The situation is further complicated by disagreements over funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, which Democrats want to incorporate into the farm bill. As the December 20 deadline approaches, the prospect of passing a simple one-year extension of the current farm bill seems increasingly likely, unless a compromise can be reached.