Wisconsin Farmers Union participated in a Week of Action to demand that Congress move swiftly to pass a comprehensive Farm Bill that supports family farmers, rural communities, and consumers.
The campaign is part of a national effort coordinated by the National Farmers Union.
“Farmers are used to dealing with uncertainty—it comes with the territory,” says WFU President Darin Von Ruden. “But what we’re seeing now is uncertainty on top of instability. Federal funding freezes, expired programs, trade disruptions, and input costs are putting real pressure on farmers. We need Congress to do its job and pass a strong five-year Farm Bill. The future of family farming depends on it.”
Stephanie Hoff caught up with the Wisconsin delegation and National Farmers Union President Rob Larew while in Washington D.C. WFU Government Relations Director Michelle Ramirez-White says the timing was perfect because Congress is marking up the Farm Bill during budget reconciliation next week. WFU member Rami Aburomia, an apple grower near Madison, also helped deliver the message.
The Week of Action arrives at a time of heightened urgency. The previous Farm Bill expired in 2023. It’s been extended one year at a time, leaving farmers without long-term stability at a time of volatile markets, rising input costs, and growing consolidation in agriculture.
“Family farmers are on edge, and the farm economy is faltering. Without the certainty of a strong, five- year farm bill, farmers are left exposed to mounting risks and instability,” says Larew. “This week, farmers and ranchers across the country are raising their voices to urge Congress to act – for farmers’ sake. Their stories make clear what’s at stake, not just for agriculture, but for the rural communities that depend on it.”
Farm Bill Asks
- Strengthens the farm safety net
- Builds upon voluntary conservation programs
- Restores balance and opportunity in the marketplace
- Delivers fast and reliable risk management programs
- Garners broad support from both farmers and consumers
