The National Farmers Union (NFU) concluded its Week of Action in Washington, where over 100 farmers gathered to advocate for a robust farm bill. The event also prompted local action from numerous family farmers and ranchers across the nation. The message conveyed by NFU members highlighted the challenges faced by farmers, including volatile markets, rising input costs, diminishing federal support, and increasing trade tensions, all compounded by the absence of a new farm bill.
NFU President Rob Larew expressed gratitude towards the participating farm families: “We are so deeply indebted to over 100 farm families who have taken time from what is the busiest time of year for many farmers and ranchers to travel here, deliver the news themselves and tell their stories about why action is so necessary right now.”
On May 6, NFU organized a press conference with Representative Marcy Kaptur at the House Triangle. During this event, five farmers shared personal accounts of how the lack of a farm bill has led to stress and uncertainty during planting season.
NFU Vice President Jeff Kippley emphasized the urgency of legislative action: “Prices are low, and the time to do something for our family farmers and ranchers is now. Our safety net right now is inadequate. That is why we are taking time off of our farms and ranches when we should be calving out cattle, putting them to grass, putting seeds in the ground. We are out here in D.C. talking to our legislators and asking them to get the job done. Let’s get to work, let’s roll up our sleeves and let’s get a farm bill.”
