On January 12th, 2024, during an interview with Agri-Pulse (found here), OFW’s own Roger Szemraj discussed farm policy dynamics on Capitol Hill and what he’s watching in the weeks ahead.
Szemraj noted that the spending figures agreed to for the FY 2024 Appropriations bills were largely in line with Fiscal Responsibility Act, but allocation across individual bills remains an unknown. He anticipates a compressed schedule for FY 2025 bills, with uncertainty over whether House leadership will try to force reductions below previously agreed levels that the Senate has sought to maintain.
For the upcoming Farm Bill, Szemraj emphasized that the total money available will determine what can be accomplished. Key issues will likely include battles over SNAP funding, Thrifty Food Plan authority, and Commodity Credit Corporation authority. With limited time and resources, passing the Farm Bill will be a challenge.
