The Senate Agriculture Committee on Wednesday advanced the farm bill after failing to move the legislation forward last month.

The Agricultural Act of 2026 passed along party lines with a vote of 12–11. 

Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., was present to vote in favor of the bill. McConnell returned to the Senate Monday for the first time in three months, according to reporting by the Associated Press’s Mary Clare Jalonick.

Most industry groups welcomed the legislation’s advancement, with many urging further action in the Senate. Not all reactions were positive. Here’s a closer look.

Ag Bioeconomy Coalition 

The Ag Bioeconomy Coalition (ABC) is a broad group of leading industry associations whose members contribute to the vibrant value chain of the U.S. agriculture bioeconomy.

“The Ag Bioeconomy Coalition applauds the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Agricultural Act of 2026, which includes policies to grow America’s ag bioeconomy,” said Kent Roberson, ABC spokesperson, in a statement. “Together, these provisions help expand market opportunities for American-grown crops, accelerate innovation, support the production of renewable fuels and biobased products, and strengthen the economic foundation of rural communities. We urge the full Senate to build on this progress by working to advance the bill.”

American Farm Bureau Federation  

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) is the nation’s largest farmer-run organization and serves farmers in all 50 states.

“We applaud members of the Senate Agriculture Committee who recognize the critical support the farm bill provides for America’s farmers and ranchers,” said Zippy Duvall, AFBF president, in a statement. “We appreciate Chairman Boozman’s leadership in moving this legislation forward and we urge lawmakers in the House and Senate to advance a farm bill to President Trump’s desk.

“It’s been almost a decade since Congress last passed a farm bill. In the past 10 years, more than 200,000 family farms have gone out of business, as farmers grappled with a pandemic, global unrest, rising expenses, and falling prices paid for the food they grow. A new, modernized farm bill will help give farmers the tools they need to survive continued and unforeseen challenges ahead.

“More than 100 farmers and ranchers descended on Washington this week to send the message that we’re counting on Congress to work together to advance a bipartisan farm bill. A strong farm bill ensures an abundant and safe food supply. It benefits every family in America, regardless of their political affiliation.”

American Soybean Association 

The American Soybean Association (ASA) represents U.S. soybean farmers on domestic and international policy issues. ASA has 26 affiliate state associations representing 30 soybean-producing states and nearly 500,000 soybean farmers.

“Advancing the farm bill out of committee moves Congress closer to providing the certainty and support farmers need,” said Scott Metzger, ASA president, in a statement. “ASA appreciates the work of committee members to move this critical legislation forward.”

Corn Refiners Association 

The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the U.S. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913.

“Today’s Senate Agriculture Committee action moves Congress one step closer to a full, five-year farm bill that will provide farmers, agricultural manufacturers, and rural communities with the certainty needed to sustain U.S. global leadership in agriculture,” said John Bode, CRA president and CEO, in a statement. “The legislation advanced by the committee includes long-awaited, bipartisan improvements to programs that expand markets for American farmers and help unlock the tremendous growth potential of the nation’s ag bioeconomy. We thank Chairman Boozman for his leadership to advance this legislation and urge the full Senate to pass a five-year farm bill without delay.”

Farm Credit Council 

Fulfilling its mission of helping rural America grow and thrive for more than a century, Farm Credit supports rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services, today and tomorrow.

“Farm Credit thanks Chairman John Boozman and all members of the Senate Agriculture Committee for their work on the Agricultural Act of 2026, an important step toward advancing a complete, five-year farm bill this year,” said Christy Seyfert, Farm Credit Council president and CEO, in a statement.

“As producers navigate ongoing economic uncertainty, completing a five-year farm bill is more important than ever. This legislation includes bipartisan provisions to increase credit availability for farmers and ranchers, modernize and streamline programs, and reduce regulatory burdens on producers and their ag lenders.

“As the House and Senate Agriculture Committees shift into the next steps toward enactment, Farm Credit looks forward to collaborating with Congress to enact a robust, forward-looking, and complete farm bill to give certainty to rural America.”

Growth Energy 

As the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, Growth Energy is the leading voice of America’s biofuel industry. Members of the association operate and support biomanufacturing facilities at the heart of America’s bioeconomy, delivering a new generation of plant-based energy and climate solutions.

“Consumers deserve lower-cost fuel options and farmers deserve reliable markets,” said Emily Skor, Growth Energy CEO, in a statement. “Year-round E15 delivers on both fronts, and we’re grateful to our bipartisan Senate champions for making E15 an urgent priority.

“Now is the time for Congress to prioritize U.S. drivers over those who simply oppose lower-cost options at the pump. We look forward to working with leaders in both the House and Senate to finally put commonsense, bipartisan legislation on the president’s desk.”

International Fresh Produce Association 

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain and the only to seamlessly integrate world-facing advocacy and industry-facing support.

“The Senate Agriculture Committee’s passage of the Agricultural Act of 2026 moves the farm bill process forward at an important time for America’s specialty crop growers,” said Cathy Burns, IFPA CEO, in a statement. “We thank Chairman John Boozman and members of the Committee for advancing the legislation and recognizing the unique needs of specialty crop production.

“Growers continue to face significant economic pressures, including rising production costs, labor challenges, extreme weather, and market uncertainty. As the bill moves forward, IFPA urges Congress to build on this progress by strengthening the Specialty Crop Emergency Assistance Framework and ensuring specialty crop growers have risk management tools that reflect how their farms operate.

“IFPA looks forward to working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to enact a bipartisan, five-year farm bill this year that delivers meaningful support for specialty crop agriculture, helps producers remain competitive, and helps keep fruits and vegetables available and affordable for families across the country.”

Illinois Soybean Growers 

Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG) is part of the Illinois Soybean Association, which has checkoff and membership programs representing more than 43,000 soybean farmers in Illinois.

“This is another important step in the farm bill process, but there is still work to be done,” said Bryan Severs, ISG chair, in a statement. “As the legislation moves to the Senate floor, we will continue working with our policymakers to make sure the priorities and needs of Illinois soybean farmers are represented, including crop insurance and risk management, biofuels, conservation, and trade.”

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship 

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) has been led by Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig since 2018.

“The Senate Agriculture Committee has taken a significant and encouraging step toward delivering the modernized farm bill that America’s farmers need,” said Naig. “Every title in this legislation matters to Iowa because it provides greater certainty at a time when farm families are facing a challenging agricultural economy. I am pleased that this package includes permanent, nationwide year-round E15. Thank you to Senators Grassley and Ernst for their strong leadership and support for Iowa agriculture, along with Chairman Boozman for his work to advance this legislation through the committee. Now it’s time for the full Senate to act, and then for the House and Senate to come together on a unified farm bill that can be sent to the President’s desk. Iowa farmers and rural communities have waited long enough.”

Iowa Corn Growers Association 

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is a 7,500-member strong grassroots-driven organization, headquartered in Johnston, Iowa, serving members across the state, and lobbying on agricultural issues on behalf of its farmer members to create opportunities for long-term Iowa corn grower profitability.

“Today’s vote by the Senate Agriculture Committee delivers a major victory for farm families who rely on effective risk management and sound agricultural policy,” said Steve Kuiper, ICGA president, in a statement. “This vote moves us one step closer to getting a finalized bill to the president’s desk and signed into law. Farmers need a win, and we thank the members of the Senate Ag Committee for prioritizing agriculture. We urge the full Senate to take up and pass this vital legislation without delay.”

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association 

Formed in 2002, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) brings together Iowa ethanol and biodiesel producers to foster the development and growth of the state’s biofuels industry through education, promotion, and infrastructure development.

“We were pleased to see continued progress on E15 in the Senate. The fight is far from over, but our champions, Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, won’t give up the fight to secure permanent, year-round E15 access for Iowa drivers and consumers across the country,” said Monte Shaw, IRFA executive director, in a statement.

“Permanent, year-round E15 access would replace the current reliance on temporary measures that have allowed E15 to remain available during recent summer driving seasons. The Senate Agriculture Committee’s farm bill language would establish year-round E15 access in federal law.

“E15 is an Iowa success story, but it doesn’t have to stop at the state line,” Shaw added. “We’ve proven the demand is there. Now it’s time to give drivers across the country the same opportunity Iowa drivers already have.”

Meat Institute 

The Meat Institute represents the full community of people and companies who make the majority of meat American families rely on every day.

“As we look ahead to consideration of the farm bill by the full Senate, the Meat Institute will continue to oppose MCOOL [mandatory country-of-origin labeling] provisions because they raise the price of beef for American families,” said Julie Anna Potts, Meat Institute president and CEO, in a statement. “Consumers are paying more for beef than ever before. It is the worst time for Congress to interfere with markets, adding costs and bureaucracy to production by mandating how beef should be marketed to consumers.

“According to an economic analysis of MCOOL, it will raise the cost of beef for consumers by $835 million annually. Even though MCOOL would only apply to whole muscle cuts and ground beef sold at retail stores, implementing it requires segregation of all cattle and beef going through the supply chain, regardless of whether the final products are sold at retail, are processed, or [are] sold at foodservice. Segregation, lost efficiency, and recordkeeping requirements drive the immense costs to the system.

“MCOOL is at cross purposes with efforts by the Trump administration and the Congress to relieve the high price of food. MCOOL’s excessive costs are a threat to consumer demand which has sustained the entire beef supply chain through tough conditions.

“MCOOL could also jeopardize the Trump administration’s ongoing trade negotiations with Cananda and Mexico which benefit the U.S. economy as a whole. Canada and Mexico challenged MCOOL when it was previously in law, and they were authorized to retaliate against U.S. products with more than $1 billion in tariffs: they retain that right today.

“MCOOL is a misguided solution in search of a problem. Cattle producers have experienced nearly two years of exceptionally strong cattle prices, including record highs for fed and feeder cattle in 2025 and 2026. While the U.S. herd rebuilds from historically small numbers, and consumers still demand high-quality beef, cattle producers will continue to benefit from strong market conditions. We need more cattle for more beef; not protectionist trade measures that will raise prices for consumers.”

National Association of State Departments of Agriculture 

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries, and directors of the departments of agriculture in all 50 states and four U.S. territories.

“NASDA congratulates Chairman John Boozman and members of the Senate Agriculture Committee on advancing the farm bill,” said Ted McKinney, NASDA CEO, in a statement. “NASDA members remain united on the same goal: We must enact a bipartisan farm bill to strengthen American agriculture and support production of food, fiber, and fuel for all.”

National Association of Wheat Growers 

The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) is the primary policy representative in Washington, D.C., for wheat growers. The group works with a team of 20 state wheat grower organizations to benefit the wheat industry at the national level.

“Wheat farmers have waited far too long for the certainty of a new farm bill, and today’s vote is an important step toward finally getting this legislation across the finish line,” said Sam Kieffer, NAWG CEO, in a statement. “We applaud Chairman Boozman and members of the Committee for addressing many of the challenges facing wheat farmers and moving this legislation forward.

“But committee action must not be the end of the road. Wheat growers are still facing stubbornly high input costs and prolonged global uncertainty, while operating under a farm bill that hasn’t kept pace with today’s economic realities. Senate leadership must bring the farm bill to the floor and pass it as soon as possible.

“Congress spent the last four years debating the next ‘five-year’ farm bill. America’s wheat farmers need action now. The full Senate must build on today’s momentum, pass a comprehensive farm bill, and work with the House to deliver a final package to the president’s desk without further delay.”

National Corn Growers Association 

Founded in 1957, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) represents more than 36,000 dues-paying corn growers in 48 states, and the interests of more than 300,000 farmers who contribute through corn checkoff programs in their state.

“We are pleased that the farm bill passed in committee and is one step further in the legislative process,” said Jed Bower, NCGA president, in a statement. “Corn growers are in Washington this week, reminding legislators that the true finish line is for the farm bill and year-round E15 to become law this year.

“The Senate farm bill would expand year-round consumer access to E15, which is important to farmers and the rural economy. It has the potential to significantly lower gas prices across the country while shoring up the nation’s energy security.

“There is still work to be done. The 2026 corn crop is the most expensive crop we’ve ever planted, raised, and are now harvesting. The pressures on the ag economy only continue to mount. We encourage the full Senate to take bipartisan action to provide certainty in a worrisome time by voting to pass this legislation.

“Corn growers thank the leaders of the Senate Agriculture Committee for continuing to move this important piece of legislation forward and for their service to agriculture. 

“As recent action in the House of Representatives on the farm bill and E15 demonstrates, expanding access to higher blends of ethanol is a bipartisan endeavor, and one that can benefit all of our nation’s citizens. We are deeply appreciative of Chairman Boozman, Ranking Member Klobuchar and all our allies on the committee for pushing to expand access to E15.”

National Family Farm Coalition 

The National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC) has 30 member groups that span more than 40 states and represent family farmers, ranchers, and fishermen across the U.S.

“Farmers are going out of business, with bankruptcies hitting a six-year high in April. As farm income continues to fall — frequently dropping below the cost of production — prices for inputs such as fertilizer and fuel skyrocket. Even in the face of crisis, our elected representatives insist on rehashing the same tired, out-of-touch policies that got us here,” said Tim Gibbons, NFFC executive director, in a statement. “Come out to rural America, look around, ask questions, and bring back solutions that ensure farmers can make a living wage, stay on the land, and pass it down to future generations.”

National Farmers Union 

National Farmers Union (NFU) advocates on behalf of more than 230,000 American farm families and their communities.

“There are real wins for family farmers and ranchers in this farm bill, and we appreciate the Senate Agriculture Committee for moving it forward with these needed updates,” said Rob Larew, NFU president, in a statement. “MCOOL is a major win for farmers and consumers alike, and nationwide, year-round E15 will open new markets for family farmers.

“But we need to hold two truths at once: This farm bill delivers some real improvements, and it will not stop the crisis farmers and ranchers are living through right now. Family farmers are caught between rising input costs, concentrated corporate power, and a farm safety net that no longer reflects the realities of farming today. American families are struggling with high prices and lack of robust nutrition programs. Incremental fixes won’t reverse that. We need bigger, bolder reform of farm policy. Without it, farms will keep going out of business, and rural communities and American families will pay the price.

“As this farm bill moves forward, NFU will keep working with Congress to think beyond this bill and build farm and food policy that works for all American families.”

National Milk Producers Federation 

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) develops and carries out policies that advance dairy producers and the cooperatives they own. NMPF’s member cooperatives produce more than two-thirds of U.S. milk, making NMPF dairy’s voice on Capitol Hill and with government agencies.

“We applaud Chairman Boozman and members of the Senate Agriculture Committee for advancing the 2026 Senate Farm Bill, which includes key provisions that support and strengthen the dairy industry,” said Gregg Doud, NMPF president and CEO, in a statement. “With a farm bill already through the House, we’re hopeful that both chambers can now work together on full congressional passage in 2026 that gives dairy farmers the certainty they deserve.”

National Sorghum Producers 

National Sorghum Producers (NSP) represents U.S. sorghum producers and serves as the voice of the sorghum industry coast to coast through legislative and regulatory representation and education.

“Farmers have waited far too long for the certainty of an updated farm bill,” said Amy France, NSP chair, in a statement. “Today’s vote is an important step forward for producers facing weak prices, high input costs, and continued uncertainty.

“Year-round E15 represents a real opportunity to grow demand for sorghum and strengthen the farm economy. We appreciate Chairman John Boozman’s leadership and Sen. Roger Marshall’s continued work to keep this critical priority moving forward.

“Food for Peace demonstrates the reach and value of American agriculture. We thank Sen. Moran for his leadership in protecting the program and ensuring it remains closely connected to the farmers who make its mission possible.

“Today’s progress matters, but the work is not finished. Sorghum producers need Congress to come together and deliver a farm bill that provides certainty, strengthens markets and supports the future of American agriculture.”

Plant Based Products Council 

The Plant Based Products Council (PBPC) is an association of like-minded organizations that are advocating for a shift toward a more circular bioeconomy through greater adoption of renewable, plant-based materials supported by appropriate end-of-life infrastructure.

“The Plant Based Products Council appreciates the momentum for a farm bill that would strengthen America’s biobased products sector,” said James Glueck, PBPC executive director, in a statement. “The Agricultural Act of 2026 takes important steps to expand markets for innovative biobased products, strengthen domestic biomanufacturing capacity, and ensure the American ag bioeconomy remains globally competitive, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains for critical biobased materials.

“The bill includes bipartisan, PBPC-endorsed policy priorities, including measures to establish uniform bioeconomy terminology, expand federal procurement through improvements to USDA’s BioPreferred Program, revitalize a critical grant program to scale biorefinery and renewable chemical infrastructure, and build public awareness of the benefits of biobased products. Together, these provisions will help move innovative technologies from the lab to commercial scale, strengthening domestic biobased product supply chains while creating new market opportunities for U.S. farmers.

“We now urge the full Senate to pass a full, five-year farm bill that advances bipartisan policies to grow America’s ag bioeconomy and strengthen U.S. competitiveness and national security.”

Renewable Fuels Association 

Since 1981, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has been the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry.

“Today’s passage of the farm bill by the Senate Agriculture Committee represents an important step toward finally securing nationwide, year-round E15,” said Geoff Cooper, RFA president and CEO, in a statement. “We thank Sen. Boozman and the members of the committee for ensuring the E15 provisions were included. As expressed throughout the farm bill process, there is broad bipartisan support for making lower-cost E15 available to consumers all year long — especially at a time when pump prices are on the rise and fuel supplies are tightening. Now, we urge the full Senate to pass year-round E15 legislation as quickly as possible, reconcile the language with the House, and get a viable solution to President Trump’s desk for his signature.”

The Fertilizer Institute 

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers, and trading firms.

“TFI thanks Chairman Boozman and members of the Senate Agriculture Committee for recognizing the important role that nutrient stewardship, innovation, and market transparency play in helping farmers produce abundant, affordable food while protecting natural resources,” said Corey Rosenbusch, TFI president and CEO, in a statement. “These provisions reflect a practical, science-based approach to strengthening American agriculture and ensuring farmers have access to both innovative tools and reliable information in an increasingly complex global marketplace.”

“Biostimulants are still a relatively new innovation in agriculture, and there remains great potential in these products. Providing clarity and a path forward for these technologies will foster innovation, research, testing, and ultimately help bring new solutions to growers.

“Improving access to timely, consistent, and reliable market information can help strengthen understanding of fertilizer and crop input markets across the agricultural economy. Farmers, agriculture advocates, and the fertilizer industry all support efforts to improve transparency and strengthen communication across the agricultural supply chain. We look forward to working with the committee to strengthen the bill with meaningful improvements that provide Congress, growers, and the administration with clear, reliable information about fertilizer markets.

“The fertilizer industry remains committed to solutions that support farmers and help ensure a stable and accessible supply of fertilizer products for American growers. TFI looks forward to continuing to work with Senate leaders and members of Congress to advance a strong Farm Bill that allows farmers to produce the food that feeds our country and the world.”

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