U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, has announced the advancement of a bill that secures significant funding for projects in Maine. The Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act was passed by the committee with a unanimous vote of 27-0.
The bill allocates $27.1 billion in discretionary funding and will now be considered by the full Senate. "By assisting Maine’s farmers and investing in critical agricultural research and nutrition programs, this bill would support rural communities throughout the state," said Senator Collins. She emphasized her commitment to advocating for this funding as the appropriations process continues.
Key highlights of the bill include more than $25 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine and $10 million for PFAS research in collaboration with the University of Maine. It also maintains full funding for potato research programs and provisions allowing potatoes in school breakfasts.
Additionally, it directs the Farm Services Agency to report on factors affecting agricultural production and farm loss in New England. The bill provides $5 million for the FDA's Neurology Drug Program to support policy development related to brain science advancements. Nutrition assistance programs supporting low-income women, children, and seniors are fully funded.
