WASHINGTON, D.C. (NewsDakota.com) – U.S. Senator John Hoeven emphasized the importance of passing a robust Farm Bill during Senate floor remarks this week, highlighting key investments needed to support the nation’s agricultural sector. Hoeven outlined his priorities for the bill, focusing on strengthening the farm safety net to help farmers manage risk and weather economic challenges.

A media release states that Hoeven is advocating for enhanced crop insurance, the primary risk management tool for many producers. He is pushing to improve the affordability of higher coverage levels, aligning with his FARMER Act, to help farmers better endure natural disasters and reduce the need for ad-hoc disaster aid.

Additionally, Hoeven is calling for updates to counter-cyclical safety net programs, including Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC). He stressed that reference prices within these programs should be updated to reflect current market realities and the rising costs of production that farmers are facing.

“During the recent state work period, I met with farmers and ranchers across North Dakota to gather feedback on their most pressing issues,” Hoeven said. “We need a strong commodity title, updated crop insurance, and an improved counter-cyclical safety net. Farmers are dealing with challenges they cannot control, such as weather, prices, and trade.”

According to the release, Hoeven pointed to worsening economic conditions for farmers, citing the latest USDA Farm Income Forecast, which shows that lower commodity prices, high input costs, and elevated interest rates are creating significant challenges. Adjusted for inflation, the 2024 net cash farm income projections for key crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat are among the worst in 15 years.

Hoeven expressed optimism about progress on the Farm Bill, noting bipartisan efforts in both the Senate and the House to address the needs of farmers and secure updates to crop insurance and safety net programs. He urged lawmakers to come together and finalize the bill to provide much-needed support to the agricultural community.