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USDA implementing ‘non-farmer’ revisions

The USDA has begun implementation of a key provision in the farm bill.  It’s a proposed rule to limit farm payments to non-farmers, as instructed by Congress in the 2014 Farm Bill. The Farm Service Agency says it’s closing the loophole allowing “actively engaged farmers” by the old definition to meet the new definition.

Under the proposed rule, “non-family joint ventures and general partnerships must document that their managers are making significant contributions to the farming operation, defined as 500 hours of substantial management work per year, or 25-percent of the critical management time necessary for the success of the farming operation.”

Congress insists that family farming operations will not be impacted by the rule.

It’s open for comment through May 26th, 2015 at www.regulations.gov

For the proposed rule, click here