The Senate Agriculture Committee failed to advance its Farm Bill Thursday (Aug. 6, 2026) after Democrats rejected the Republican proposal in a 10-11 vote, leaving the legislation without a clear path forward.
Committee Chairman John Boozman recessed the markup after negotiations broke down over changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Democrats insisted on a two-year delay before states begin sharing SNAP benefit costs, while Republicans offered a one-year delay.
“I want us to get to a bipartisan agreement,” said Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar. “But first and foremost, that includes addressing this ridiculous SNAP situation.”
The committee did approve several amendments, including provisions to permanently move the Food for Peace program to USDA and allow hot rotisserie chicken purchases through SNAP. Boozman said he can reconvene the committee later this year as lawmakers continue negotiations on the overdue Farm Bill.
The Farm Credit Council is encouraging lawmakers to continue working toward a bipartisan Farm Bill after the Senate Agriculture Committee failed to advance the legislation.
Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfert thanked Chairman John Boozman, Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar, and committee members for their efforts while expressing disappointment that the bill did not move forward.
“As producers navigate ongoing economic uncertainty, completing a five-year Farm Bill is more important than ever,” Seyfert said.
She noted the proposal includes provisions to expand credit availability for farmers and ranchers, strengthen crop insurance, and modernize Farm Service Agency loan programs.
The committee rejected the bill Thursday after disagreements over SNAP funding changes. Farm Credit says it remains committed to working with both parties during the congressional recess to help advance a five-year Farm Bill that provides certainty for agriculture and rural America.
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