Lawmakers Move Farm Bill Forward in 224-200 Vote

After months of doubt over whether enough votes could be secured, the House approved a major farm bill Thursday in a 224-200 vote, advancing comprehensive updates to U.S. food and agriculture policy. The budget-neutral measure represents the most significant congressional movement on a farm bill since the last reauthorization in 2018.

The National Cotton Council welcomed passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, also known as Farm Bill 2.0, and encouraged bipartisan support as the legislation heads to the Senate. “We appreciate Speaker Mike Johnson, Chairman Glenn Thompson, and House leadership for their work in moving this critical bill forward,” said NCC Chairman Nathan Reed.

Reed said the bill makes progress in strengthening the farm safety net and supporting research, trade, and rural communities during a period of economic strain. The group expressed concern over an amendment led by Representative Anna Paulina Luna affecting crop protectants, calling them essential for productivity. The council also urged action on the Buying American Cotton Act.