Farm Bill programs extended one year in shutdown-ending deal (Agri-Pulse): A new stopgap spending bill to reopen the government also includes a one-year extension of key Farm Bill programs that had been left out of July’s budget package. The continuing resolution (CR), which funds the government through January 30, prevents outdated “permanent law” provisions from taking effect—a fallback that would otherwise trigger Depression-era price supports. The bill also extends USDA’s authority under the Grain Standards Act, allowing official grain inspection and weighing services to continue uninterrupted.
The Senate advanced the measure in a 60-40 vote Sunday night, giving farmers relief from uncertainty over whether core safety-net programs would lapse. The earlier “One Big Beautiful Bill” increased funding for commodity programs, crop insurance, and export promotion, but left the Conservation Reserve Program and several smaller initiatives without renewal. The new CR fills that gap temporarily while Congress works toward a full reauthorization.
Beyond agriculture, the measure reverses any federal employee firings made since the October 1 shutdown began and halts additional layoffs while the CR is in effect. Lawmakers also released bipartisan agreements on three broader fiscal 2026 spending bills—including USDA and FDA funding—providing $26.65 billion for discretionary farm and food programs not covered under the farm bill.
Policy Updates: Farm Bill programs extended one year in shutdown-ending deal
Passed by the Senate last night, a new stopgap spending bill to fund the government through January 30 includes a one-year extension of key Farm Bill programs.
(Lindsey Pound)