The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill 2.0) on April 30 with a bipartisan vote of 224-200.
The Minnesota Corn Growers Association said this legislation is important for the future of corn farmers and American agriculture as it addresses challenges such as high input costs, low commodity prices, and unpredictable weather and markets. The association supports rural communities and promotes agricultural practices that enhance economic opportunities, according to the official website.
MCGA President Wes Beck said in a statement that “Farm Bill 2.0 will go a long way toward improving conditions on the ground for Minnesota farmers during this time of economic uncertainty.” Beck also said, “We appreciate the leadership of Chairman Thompson and look forward to Farm Bill action in the U.S. Senate.”
The bill covers farm program components not included in previous legislation such as credit programs, research initiatives, energy provisions, reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act, updates to trade promotion references, and maintains current Conservation Reserve Program caps. The MCGA noted its approval that relief from California Proposition 12 was included in the bill because pork producers are significant customers for corn farmers.
Advocacy by Representatives Fischbach and Finstad led to an attempt to include year-round E15 sales in the Farm Bill; however, this measure will be considered separately during May.
The Minnesota Corn Growers Association partners closely with the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council under the shared name Minnesota Corn according to its official website. The organization represents nearly 7,000 members statewide across Minnesota while working to identify opportunities for corn farmers and advocating for issues impacting farms and communities.
