Intertribal Agriculture Council Calls for Farm Bill Reauthorization to Support Tribal Nations, Agricultural Producers

Billings, Montana, May 23, 2025—This week, the House narrowly passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—a wide-ranging bill that could significantly impact Tribal farmers, ranchers, and families.

Among other provisions, the bill reduces federal spending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by approximately $300 billion over the next ten years while increasing spending on federal crop insurance, commodity support programs, and other assistance by approximately $60 billion. It also reauthorizes a range of agriculture programs that are typically addressed in the Farm Bill every five years, such as the Agriculture Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), and the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program.

Support for Tribal Agriculture is Mixed

The Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC) acknowledges that while the bill contains some positive measures that support small farmers, a full and comprehensive Farm Bill is essential for the future of Tribal agriculture.

“Tribal farmers and ranchers continue to face economic challenges, and IAC appreciates the House taking steps to support farmers and ranchers by improving the affordability of crop insurance, increasing access to drought relief programs, and reauthorizing voluntary conservation programs,” said Kari Jo Lawrence, CEO of IAC. “However, these measures fall short of what Tribal Nations and producers need. I call on Congress to continue Farm Bill negotiations and support economic opportunity, job creation, and domestic food production in Tribal and rural communities.”

What’s at Stake for Tribal Communities

The House and Senate introduced Farm Bill texts last year, marking progress for Tribal sovereignty through expanded 638 authority, improved Tribal parity in USDA program eligibility, and changes to farm loan programs that improve access to capital for Tribal producers. Without these reforms, Tribal agriculture will continue to face barriers in accessing federal programs that increase economic development and build food security. 

One in four Tribal members experiences food insecurity, and many rely on federal food assistance programs, including SNAP. Changes to the SNAP program could also shift demand across federal food support systems, underscoring the importance of continued investment in Tribal agriculture and food programs that risk delay or disruption without the passage of a comprehensive Farm Bill.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act now moves to the Senate, where revisions are under consideration.

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Now is the time to raise your voice for Tribal agriculture and rural prosperity. Visit the IAC Policy & Government Relations webpage to learn how you can take action. Strong rural economies, food systems, and infrastructure start with policies that respect and reflect Tribal sovereignty.

Here's how you can help drive change:

• Download the advocacy letter template to urge lawmakers to support Tribal-led agriculture and rural development.

• Find your legislators—both local and national—who influence policies on agriculture, infrastructure, and economic growth.

• Personalize your message. Add your story or highlight your community’s priorities—whether it's broadband access, land use, market development, or food security.

• Send your letter by mail or email to ensure your concerns and solutions are heard.

• Amplify your impact. Share your advocacy on social media and with your community to inspire others and build momentum.

Your voice matters. Help ensure Indian Country’s priorities shape the future of U.S. food and farm policy.

TAKE ACTION