ISA Urges Stronger Support for Farmers in Senate Farm Bill

By Andi Anderson

The Illinois Stewardship Alliance (ISA) has welcomed the release of the Senate Farm Bill discussion draft, calling it a positive step toward advancing overdue federal farm legislation. However, the organization says the proposal falls short of addressing the major economic and structural challenges facing independent farmers, rural communities, and local food systems.

“The Farm Bill shapes nearly every part of our food system, from what farmers can grow to what families can afford to eat,” said Liz Rupel, Deputy Director of Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “This discussion draft moves the conversation forward, but it doesn’t yet deliver the bold investments and reforms farmers and communities need.”

ISA noted that although the draft includes some promising provisions, it misses key opportunities to strengthen competition in agricultural markets, reduce corporate concentration, support local and regional food systems, and increase investments in conservation and soil health. The group warns that without stronger reforms, independent farmers will continue to face limited market access, rising costs, and fewer opportunities to sell their products.

The alliance argues that a stronger Farm Bill should promote fair and competitive markets, expand opportunities for beginning, diversified, and mid-sized farmers, and ensure that public investments support producers who are caring for the land and providing food to local communities.

ISA is encouraging lawmakers from both parties to improve the legislation by expanding access to affordable, locally produced food, increasing support for farmer-led conservation efforts, strengthening local and regional food infrastructure, promoting greater market competition, and creating more opportunities for new and mid-sized farmers.

The organization also highlighted growing concerns over industry consolidation, noting that many farmers are experiencing shrinking profits while a small number of corporations continue to expand their control over seeds, agricultural inputs, processing facilities, and grocery supply chains.

“The Farm Bill should create opportunity for farmers while building healthier communities and healthier land,” Rupel said. “We look forward to working with members of Congress to strengthen this proposal and deliver a Farm Bill that truly serves farmers, eaters, and rural communities.

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