Warnings from Wisconsin Farmers as the Farm Bill Languishes

One elected official’s response is under scrutiny while farmers issue warnings about food prices if the Farm Bill isn’t passed early next year

Wisconsin farmers are frustrated. They are being forced to face uncertainty as the Farm Bill languishes following the September 30th expiration date. They are also sharing warnings of skyrocketing food prices if nothing happens in January. Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darin Von Ruden joins Jane Matenaer and Greg Bach, hosts of Matenaer on Air, to discuss who is going to be hurt most by the inaction in Congress.

What happened to bipartisan cooperation? We’re dealing with issues that can’t wait. Our land and our food security are at risk.

Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darin Von Ruden

“We’re already seeing farmers feeling immense pressure,” Von Ruden explains. “The bill is significant for Wisconsin agriculture. Programs crucial to our livelihood, like conservation initiatives, hang in the balance. The House and Senate can’t find common ground, and it’s the farmers—and ultimately the consumers—who are paying the price.”

Von Ruden goes on to outline the key issues dividing lawmakers. It includes potential shifts in funding from conservation efforts to insurance programs and cuts to nutrition assistance. 

“What happened to bipartisan cooperation?” he asks. “We’re dealing with issues that can’t wait. Our land and our food security are at risk.”

---

LISTEN to the entire interview here:

---

The stakes ramp up as 2025 quickly approaches. If a bill isn’t passed, outdated policies could trigger dramatic increases in food prices. And it may mean doubling or tripling grocery costs. 

“Calling it the ‘food bill’ might make people understand the urgency,” Von Ruden says. “Consumers will feel this directly at the check-out.”

And as tensions rise, one Wisconsin congressman’s response to the farmers who are advocating for action is under scrutiny. Von Ruden reveals a recent meeting with Representative Derrick Van Orden turned confrontational. The congressman spent significant time addressing a political ad rather than concerns of the farmers. 

“It was frustrating. We’re there to share our stories and advocate for meaningful action, not to be scolded for exercising our democratic rights,” Von Ruden tells Matenaer and Bach. .

Farmers and agriculture advocates are urging the public to contact their elected officials. They are emphasizing the ripple effects a delayed or inadequate Farm Bill will have on everyone, from farm fields to kitchen tables. And the clock is ticking. 

“We need lawmakers to stop pointing fingers and start reaching compromises. Our food system depends on it,” Von Ruden says. 

What can you do?

Learn more about this important legislation here.

Find your elected officials and contact them here.