Farm Bill & USDA
The U.S. Farm Bill is a critical piece of legislation that strongly influences agricultural and food policies in the United States. It encompasses a wide variety of provisions, including initiatives related to commodity programs, rural development, farm credit, agricultural research, crop subsidies, conservation, and food assistance and nutrition programs. The bill is usually renewed every five years by the United States Congress, and addresses all programs under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Because the Farm Bill covers such a broad range of topics, it is often the center of attention for many industry and public interest groups. Environmental organizations, international trade coalitions, food safety advocates, agriculture industry members, and hunger and nutrition alliances all have a stake in what the Farm Bill dictates—meaning that conversations about the Farm Bill can often be contentious and controversial. On this page, you will find materials that cover all aspects of the bill, from a more in-depth description of the Farm Bill itself and how it is developed, to its economic and social impact.
“SNAP to Health” is particularly interested in the Farm Bill (which is up for renewal this year) because it contains provisions for the re-authorization of SNAP. Any reforms made to SNAP must be included in the legislation.
Click on the links below to find out more about the Farm Bill:
Farm Bill Resources
- USDA Resources
- House Committee on Agriculture
- Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry
- National Agricultural Law Center
- Environmental Working Group
