Let me cut to the chase. Things will get better. At least that is the word from Texas A&M University’s Agricultural and Food Policy economists Joe Outlaw and Bart Fischer, on efforts to try and stay positive while waiting on a new Farm Bill.
As Extension economists, they are called on to deliver updates at county, regional, state-wide and national meetings. Admittingly, their job is not always fun, but they believe in giving an honest assessment to producers, rather than sugarcoating it. Although difficult, this is something producers appreciate — an honest, at times blunt — assessment of the situation.
While producers across the country wonder why they should continue producing food and fiber at significant risk without a viable safety net, especially given that Congress doesn’t seem to value what they do, the economists fully understand this type of sentiment but say there are positives to look at.
“First, while not large in number, there are members in both the House of Representatives and Senate who truly understand how dire the situation is and are absolutely trying to help. It’s all about money and timing, and, in our opinion, if this wasn’t an election year, a new Farm Bill would be signed into law by now.
“Second, we feel strongly that Congress will also see the need and provide financial disaster assistance to help out in the short term since safety net enhancements that will be included in the new Farm Bill will not trigger payments until October 2026.
“Third, it has taken a while, but all of the key agricultural stakeholders (general farm organizations, commodity groups, lenders, input suppliers, etc.) are working together and, in unison, are calling for the Farm Bill to be completed. It is important that members of Congress hear a consistent message.”
Finally, the authors say, agriculture profitability always has been and will continue to be cyclical, which means bad times — like good times — don’t last long before an unforeseen event around the world causes it to change.