ASA: USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Payments Fall Short for Soybean Farmers

Today, the American Soybean Association responded to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's release of additional details regarding the Farmer Bridge Assistance program. The commodity-specific payment rates for the program will include $30.88/acre for soybeans, which will not cover the significant financial damage soybean farmers sustained this year due to the high cost of production and losses sustained during the China trade war.

ASA appreciates the administration's focus on the economic downturn in the U.S. agricultural industry. The per-acre financial support for soybean farmers, however, will not be enough to ensure their operations can survive through the next growing season. The FBA program is a critical first step in making soybean farmers whole, but additional actions, including finalizing biofuels policies to bolster domestic markets for U.S. soy, are urgently needed.

"ASA is grateful to the Trump administration and USDA for recognizing the economic losses farmers are experiencing, but due to significant trade losses this year, the payment rate for soybeans will likely not be enough for soybean farmers to keep their operations financially solvent as we move into the next planting season," said ASA President and Ohio farmer Scott Metzger. "While the assistance provides some relief, farmers need strong, reliable markets to guarantee the long-term success of the U.S. soybean industry. We urge the Trump administration to focus on immediate, achievable actions which will support domestic soybean markets, including finalizing policies that create a preference for soy-based biofuel feedstocks through the 2026-2027 Renewable Volume Obligations, robust biomass-based diesel volumes, and 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit tax guidance. Reliable markets depend on policies that grow demand, strengthen rural economies, and provide certainty for the next generation."

ASA urges the administration to deliver long-term demand solutions by finalizing strong biofuels policy. Finalizing EPA's biofuel blending requirements as proposed, including the RIN credit discount for imported biofuel feedstocks that undercut domestic soybean demand, would prioritize American-grown feedstocks, support domestic energy production, and strengthen demand for U.S. soybean oil. Further, the swift finalization of 45Z tax guidance to ensure the positive changes created through One Big Beautiful Bill Act can be realized, is imperative to support biofuel industry investments. Putting these policies in place now will help ensure today's assistance is paired with lasting market opportunity for soybean farmers and rural communities.