Dear Chairman Thompson and Ranking Member Craig:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 and urges all Members of the Committee to vote in favor of advancing the legislation to the full House this week. This bill includes several important policies that will benefit America’s farmers, ranchers, and businesses. Many of the programs authorized in this legislation serve as a cornerstone for Main Street economies and will foster economic growth in communities nationwide. Our research has demonstrated the vast impacts that the agriculture value chain has on Main Street economies and underscores the need for Congress to act on these issues as soon as possible.
We commend the Committee for including a number of our key policy priorities in this legislation, which are critical to ensuring the needs of the agricultural sector and the broader economy are addressed:
- Promote U.S. and Global Food Security: The bill prioritizes policies that enhance America’s competitiveness to increase exports and promote trade.
- Ensure Federal Preemption for State Standards: Conflicting state standards governing production, processing, transportation, and labeling create risks for agricultural producers and trade partners. We support specific provisions on the uniformity of pesticide labeling and ensuring the free movement of livestock-derived products in interstate commerce.
- Catalyze Innovation and Advanced Technologies: The bill promotes precision and regenerative agriculture which will increase production efficiency and sustainability. Investments in renewable feedstocks, cybersecurity protections for agriculture facilities, and research in technologies, like artificial intelligence and digital twins, and soil health will drive innovation and resilience in the sector. We support the bill’s inclusion of additional pathways and associated certifications for private companies to deliver needed conservation technical assistance.
- Invest in Rural Infrastructure: USDA Rural Development programs must be fully funded to address critical broadband, energy, water, and housing infrastructure challenges, including prioritizing programs like the Healthy H2O Act to enhance rural communities’ quality of life and economic opportunities.
- Support Animal and Livestock Health: Federal leadership is essential in research and developing a coordinated national strategy to protect livestock health against risks. We also appreciate the bill for exploring solutions to the institutional and structural challenges that are leading to shortages in the rural, large animal veterinary sector.
As this important bill moves through the legislative process, we would encourage consideration of the following issues:
- Following the designation of phosphate and potash as critical minerals, Congress should work with domestic producers to protect and expand domestic production. Congress should also look to update 45X tax credits to include newly listed critical minerals like phosphate and potash.
- Leveraging technology solutions to streamline and modernize nutrition programs which would increase access while reducing fraud, waste, and abuse.
The 2026 Farm Bill is not only a lifeline for the agricultural sector but also a critical driver of economic prosperity for Main Street businesses and communities across the country. The U.S. business community stands ready to work with you to ensure the passage of this vital legislation by the Committee as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Rodney Davis
Senior Vice President
Government Affairs
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
