The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry's latest draft of the Agricultural Act of 2026 is drawing support from major commodity organizations as lawmakers work toward advancing a comprehensive five-year farm bill before the August recess.

The American Soybean Association said the revised proposal released by Committee Chairman John Boozman includes several priorities for soybean producers while strengthening the farm economy through investments in the farm safety net, conservation, rural development, agricultural research and market development.

According to ASA, the legislation contains provisions supporting plant biostimulants, expanded conservation technical assistance, improved fertilizer research, rural broadband deployment, greater access to technical service providers and precision agriculture technologies. The bill also would reauthorize international food assistance programs and strengthen programs that support new uses for U.S. soy.

ASA also highlighted broader provisions affecting agriculture, including a permanent waiver allowing year-round sales of E15 and a one-year delay in state cost-sharing requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

“America’s soybean farmers need the certainty that only a five-year farm bill can provide,” said ASA President and Ohio farmer, Scott Metzger. “Chairman Boozman’s proposal includes important improvements that strengthen the farm safety net and invest in the long-term success of U.S. agriculture. We urge Congress to get a five-year farm bill across the finish line this year.”

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) also welcomed the committee's updated Farm Bill "2.0" text, noting it addresses several of the organization's priorities.

NCGA emphasized the inclusion of language supporting year-round E15 sales, which the organization said remains one of its highest legislative priorities because expanding access to the 15% ethanol blend would create additional demand for corn. The group said it will continue reviewing the bill's provisions as the legislative process moves forward.

“We are extremely grateful that year-round E15 continues to be part of the conversation," said Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower. "This is a top priority for corn growers, who greatly need expanded sources of demand, like the kind year-round E15 would offer. We will continue to review the released text to evaluate its impact on corn growers and importance for agriculture.”

The Senate Agriculture Committee is expected to consider the legislation before lawmakers begin the August recess. Both ASA and NCGA expressed support for continued negotiations and encouraged Congress to complete work on a comprehensive five-year farm bill before the end of the year.

Sources:

National Corn Growers Association, "ASA Appreciates Senate Ag Committee Commitment to 5-Year Farm Bill"

American Soybean Association, "NCGA Welcomes Farm Bill Progress"