Senate Farm Bill Draft Boosts Crop Insurance, Keeps SNAP Reforms

The Senate Agriculture Committee has released its draft of the 2026 farm bill, and the proposal keeps key SNAP accountability reforms from President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act while expanding crop insurance and farm loan access. The legislation, introduced by Chairman John Boozman, R-Ark., also leaves out controversial provisions on pesticide labeling and livestock regulations that have divided agricultural and environmental groups.

What does the Senate farm bill mean for Iowa farmers?

Nearly two months after the U.S. House passed its version, the Senate's Agricultural Act of 2026 offers a framework that prioritizes the farm economy. For Iowa producers, the bill expands crop insurance to cover market price declines, not just natural disasters. It also increases farm loan limits to match today's operating costs and expands credit programs for beginning farmers.

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, praised the draft for building on Republican priorities from the 2025 tax and spending legislation.