By Jamie Martin
A national nonprofit is raising concerns about the potential impact of a new federal budget bill on small and family-owned farms.
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition says more than 37,000 farmers in Arkansas and many more across the country could be affected by the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act."
Mike Lavender, the group’s policy director, said the House-passed version of the bill slashes funding for essential agricultural programs, including conservation, food systems, and research. He warned that fewer farmers may receive the support they need to grow food and sustain their businesses.
“These cuts, even to relatively small programs, are going to mean that fewer farmers have access to resources and information that help them have a successful livelihood, help their business work and help them be successful in providing for their family,” Lavender explained.
Supporters of the bill argue it promotes responsible government spending and greater efficiency. The Senate is currently reviewing its version of the bill, which could also result in reductions to farm support programs.
In Arkansas, where 86% of farms are family-owned, the cuts could be particularly harmful. Lavender emphasized the importance of these programs for rural communities and urged the Senate not to repeat the actions taken by the House.
“Don’t do what the House did,” Lavender urged. “Don’t undercut farmers, don’t undercut rural communities by reducing funding for these programs.”
Lavender did note one positive aspect of the House bill—continued support for direct purchases from local farmers—but said it does not outweigh the damage caused by overall funding cuts.
The nonprofit continues to engage with lawmakers, hoping to preserve the programs that help farmers stay productive and resilient.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-seb_ra
Categories: National