Farm Progress America, January 20, 2026

Mike Pearson tells readers how a proposal by congress could provide additional billions in farm aid as producers struggle.

As American farmers continue to face financial hardship from low commodity prices and high input costs, lawmakers from both parties are pushing for substantial additional aid beyond the recently approved $11 billion Farmers Bridge Assistance Program.

Republican Leaders Push $15 Billion Package

Three key Republican agricultural leaders met last Wednesday to discuss adding $15 billion in farmer aid to appropriation bills currently moving through Congress. The effort is being led by:

• Senate Ag Committee Chairman John Bozeman (Arkansas)

• House Ag Committee Chairman GT Thompson (Pennsylvania)
• Senator John Hoeven (North Dakota), who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for Agriculture

Thompson emphasized the urgent need for support, telling reporters he believes another $10 billion in aid is necessary. "I'm sort of agnostic as to whether this additional support comes from the administration or through legislation. I just believe we need more," Thompson stated. He specifically highlighted the need for increased support for specialty crops, including sugar.

Democrats Counter with $17 Billion Proposal

Not to be outdone, House Democrats announced their own comprehensive aid package on Thursday. The Farm and Family Relief Act, spearheaded by Representative Angie Craig of Minnesota, would provide $17 billion in additional farmer assistance.

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Craig's proposal takes a broader approach than the Republican plan, offering:

• Direct aid to foresters • Enhanced support for specialty crop growers

• Assistance for sugar beet producers

• Aid payments for 5 million acres that took Prevent Plant in 2025

During a news conference, Craig explained the package would cover up to 65% of farmer losses over the past year. "We can't cover the full losses of this administration, they have been too tremendous," she noted.

Both proposals demonstrate bipartisan recognition that current support levels are insufficient to address the ongoing agricultural crisis facing American producers.