Rocky Start to Congressional Session Could Help Farm Bill Timeline

The 118th Congress opened for the first time earlier this month, kicking off with a rather bumpy start as Republicans scrambled on whom to elect as House Speaker. After four days of in-depth negotiations, Republicans elected California’s Kevin McCarthy. Part of McCarthy’s road to the position was promising to allow members to offer amendments to bills that reach the floor – a practice that has been avoided in the past.

Hearings for the Farm Bill have already started, and more to come in both the House and Senate committees. Then the drafting of the bill will take place. On the floor, amendment debate and votes can sometimes get a bill through the House, but they can also create new obstacles. However, the allowance could be a way to expedite the 2023 Farm Bill. Drafting the new bill will begin shortly and will include a wide range of amendments from Congressional members.

Read more on the farm bill’s future in the unique 118th Congress here.