Adams Bill Addresses Financial Hurdles for New Farmers and Ranchers

Today, Congresswomen Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12)and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), alongside Senator Peter Welch (D-VT), introduced the bicameral Capital for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Act. The bill will help address financial challenges for new farmers and ranchers, especially as farm input costs continue to rise and agricultural prices continue to fall in 2025.

Beginning farmers often face immediate financial hurdles during their first years of operation. This legislation directs the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to develop a multi-year loan pilot program to address financing challenges for beginning farmers and ranchers.

"The future of our agriculture industry depends on the next generation of farmers and ranchers, but high costs and shrinking profit margins make it difficult for them to enter the field," said Congresswoman Adams. "The Capital for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Act is a lifeline for our new agriculture producers, ensuring their access to essential programs like long-term loans, flexible financing terms, and technical assistance that strengthen their operations. Our farms, especially small, mid-sized, and family farms, need our support and I'm proud to introduce this bill to give them the resources they need to be successful."

"New farmers starting their businesses often face financial barriers," said Representative Strickland. "This bill gives farmers immediate access to capital as they begin their farming operations."

"Supporting aspiring and beginner farmers is key to ensuring the long-term sustainability of our food systems and the health and welfare of our communities. Start-up funds are vital to building a business in any industry, and farming is no exception. Yet for many beginning farmers-especially first-generation and farmers of color-financial barriers can make it difficult to break ground on their farm," said Senator Welch. "Our bicameral bill will make it easier for beginning farmers in Vermont, North Carolina, Washington, and across the country to start and maintain farming operations."

The full bill text can be found here.