In a powerful show of unity, more than 260 national and state farm organizations and Farm Credit institutions are urging Congress to take swift action on Farm Bill 2.0, warning that critical agricultural and rural development programs risk lapsing without immediate legislative attention.

The coalition addressed a formal letter to congressional leaders on Thursday, emphasizing the Farm Bill's central role in the long-term viability of U.S. agriculture. "While vital provisions to ensure long-term stability and competitiveness for U.S. agriculture were included in the budget reconciliation bill, it cannot and should not be a substitute for a full Farm Bill," the letter states. "The full suite of programs across all Farm Bill titles are essential to the viability of our agricultural system and rural communities."

The appeal comes as the current farm bill authorization nears expiration on September 30, putting the future of key USDA programs and support mechanisms at risk.

Among the pressing issues cited:

• Reauthorization of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)

• Limits on USDA direct and guaranteed loan programs

• Expansion of rural broadband infrastructure

• A critical provision to avoid triggering outdated permanent price-support laws if current programs lapse after 2031

The farm coalition acknowledged the constrained congressional calendar but urged prioritization of the Farm Bill. "We understand there are many needs to address during the remainder of the 119th Congress, and limited floor time must be carefully prioritized. However, we encourage leadership in both chambers to devote the necessary resources to ensuring timely debate and action," the letter continues.

Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfert reiterated the need for further legislation despite recent wins. "While Farm Credit is extremely grateful for the vital provisions included in the budget reconciliation bill that strengthen long-term stability and competitiveness, further legislation is needed to meet the evolving needs of U.S. agriculture," Seyfert said.

House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn "GT" Thompson (R-Pa.) has proposed including provisions in the new Farm Bill to address industrial hemp regulations, pesticide manufacturer litigation, and the implications of California's Proposition 12, which imposes strict animal welfare standards.

However, prospects for bipartisan passage remain murky. Some Democrats have expressed frustration over cuts made to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during budget negotiations, potentially dampening support for Farm Bill 2.0.

Thompson has signaled the need for up to $8 billion in new funding unless nutrition provisions are removed. While an extension of current farm programs appears likely before the September 30 deadline, Thompson suggested there is "no urgency" to finalize the new bill before January. Still, he remains optimistic: "I still think we can get a good, bipartisan, bicameral farm bill, 2.0."

Farm groups are sounding the alarm now to ensure continuity and expansion of essential programs for producers, rural businesses, and communities. Without prompt legislative action, they warn, the backbone of American agriculture could face major disruptions.