2018 Farm Bill Officially Expired

The 2018 Farm Bill, previously operating under a one-year extension, officially expired  September 30, 2024. Lapses in authorizing new farm bills has happened before, and many programs are able to continue operations without negative impacts until January 1, 2025. Some programs, such as the federal crop insurance program, are permanent authorities and do not need reauthorization. Others, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, are funded through appropriations bills and continuing resolutions. Some conservation programs, including the Environment Quality Incentives Program and the Regional Conservation Partners Program, were extended through the Inflation Reduction Act through 2031. However, the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) was not extended, and under previous lapses in farm bills USDA has not allowed for new CRP contracts.

Congress will continue to negotiate either an extension or a reauthorization during the lame duck session. Some Members of Congress are considering a potential farm income support package (disaster bill) as we await progress on a new five-year farm bill.