Nebraska's farm aid on hold

By Scout Nelson

In Washington, D.C., the clock is ticking as Congress scrambles to pass crucial legislation to avoid a federal government shutdown by midnight on December 20. Amidst the rush, significant agricultural components initially included in the proposed short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) have been stripped away, causing concern across the agricultural sector.

The initial draft of the CR included measures vital for the farming community, such as economic and weather-related disaster assistance and an extension of the farm bill. Notably, it also proposed year-round access to E15—a higher-ethanol gasoline blend—which is especially important for corn growers and supported broadly by stakeholders in Nebraska, including the state's Congressional Delegation.

However, in a move that frustrated many, the provision for year-round E15 was removed in subsequent versions of the resolution. As Congress moved to Plan C, the latest proposal still includes funding the federal government for three months and extending the farm bill for one year.

It also allocates $110 billion in disaster aid, which encompasses $10 billion for economic disaster relief and $21 billion for weather-related disaster aid. Yet, it lacks the E15 provision and any increase to the debit limit.

The outcome remains uncertain as the House prepares for a vote on this latest plan. Even if it passes in the House, its fate in the Senate is unclear. This ongoing legislative turmoil highlights the precarious nature of agricultural policy and funding, which is crucial for maintaining the stability and productivity of the U.S. agricultural sector.

Farmers and agricultural producers are left in a state of limbo, watching closely as decisions that could significantly impact their operations and livelihoods hang in the balance.

The importance of timely and effective legislative action cannot be overstated, as the potential shutdown looms and the agricultural community seeks assurance that their needs are being addressed in Washington.