American Family Farmer

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com shares the biggest news affecting family farmers, starting with news the USDA is seeking to raise $30 Billion dollars in borrowing limits for farmers in America needing assistance. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is urging Congress to raise the $30 billion borrowing limit of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), arguing the 30-year-old cap is insufficient for modern agricultural needs, rising costs, and new commitments. She testified that the CCC is "overcommitted" due to new farm subsidies, necessitating higher funding capacity.In other news, the Massachusetts Senate unanimously passed S.3029, known as the FARM Bill (An Act fostering agricultural resilience in Massachusetts). This comprehensive legislation aims to stabilize the state's 7,000 farms, expand food access, and modernize agriculture by easing zoning for agritourism, codifying the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), and establishing a “Next Generation Farmer” program. Key