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Farm bill extension included in House package

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has introduced a two-step continuing resolution that would prevent a partial government shutdown and extend the farm bill through next September.

The stopgap bill would fund some agencies (like the USDA) until January 19 and others until February 2.  Johnson says it should stop supplemental funding debates and put the conference in the best position to fight for fiscal responsibility.

House Ag Committee member Rick Crawford of Arkansas tells Brownfield finalizing a 2023 Farm Bill in the first quarter of next year is still possible a the 12-month extension.

“What we’re likely going to see is an extension through December of ‘24 and then a very aggressive pace at the beginning of the of the calendar year so that we can get a farm bill marked up in committee and get it onto the House floor as quickly as we can,” he shares.

House and Senate Ag Committee leadership released a joint statement over the weekend saying the extension is in no way a substitute for passing a 5-year Farm Bill and they remain committed to working together to get it done next year.

Johnson’s plan has already been met with opposition from hardline Republicans and could need support from at least some Democrats to pass.