By Lily Hawkins, Policy Director

Federal Government Shutdown Continues

The focus in D.C. continues to be the record breaking government shutdown – stretching to nearly 6 weeks at the time of writing this update. 

While some essential services are still taking place, many federal programs are paused, with federal workers furloughed or working without pay until the shutdown is resolved. 

If you have been impacted by the shutdown, we’d love to hear your story. Please contact Farmer Services Director Julia Barton (julia@organicfarmersassociation.org) or Policy Director Lily Hawkins (lily@organicfarmersassociation.org) if you have something to share.

Background: Congress failed to pass legislation to fund the government past September 30, and though a short term funding patch known as a Continuing Resolution (CR) passed in the House, it did not make it through the Senate when Democrats declined to support a bill that did not include key healthcare provisions.

Farm Bill Advocacy

With the inclusion of many agriculture provisions important to large scale commodity growers in the Big Beautiful Bill Act, and distraction from a government shutdown, momentum toward a new Farm Bill is slow.

Despite the uncertain timeline, OFA and allied organizations continue to advocate for the inclusion of key policies for organic in any future Farm Bill.

To learn more about the specific policies we’re supporting, please check out the Marker Bill Tracker on our website. These marker bills are not intended to pass on their own, but are a vehicle to introduce ideas and build support for policies in hopes that they’ll be included in the next Farm Bill. Marker bills with more congressional support have a better chance of making it into the final version of the Farm Bill.

As we make progress, we’re updating the tracker, so check back regularly for updates as Farm Bill conversations continue in D.C.

OFA Annual Policy Survey is Live!

Please take a moment to fill out and share OFA’s annual policy survey. Each year, OFA sends a survey to all certified organic farmers to gather policy opinions to narrow our priorities for the next year. If you’re a certified organic farmer, please complete the survey, and if you’re an OFA supporter, learn more about our policy process and how it puts farmer voices at the heart of our policy work.