The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA), a sweeping reconciliation package, officially became law when President Trump signed it during a Fourth of July ceremony at the White House.
The bill cleared the U.S. Senate on July 1 and passed the House on July 3, marking a fast-tracked legislative victory ahead of the holiday.
The legislation touches multiple sectors, but for agriculture, it brings substantial changes — including updates to the Farm Safety Net, an extension of the clean fuel 45Z tax credit, and long-term investments in conservation programs. It also redirects $13 billion in unused IRA conservation funds to USDA, offering new opportunities for farmers and landowners.
In a website statement, American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) president and CEO Andy LaVigne praised the bill’s passage while urging continued progress.
“This Bill delivers significant achievements, providing critical support for America’s farmers and ranchers. The legislation includes important provisions such as updates to the Farm Safety Net, extends the 45Z credit for clean fuel production, and makes long term investments in conservation.
However, there is still important work to be addressed in agricultural research, conservation, and other regulatory reforms and we urge Members of Congress to continue this forward momentum to address critical remaining regulatory and programmatic updates,”LaVigne said.
“ASTA looks forward to working with Congress and the administration on implementation of the OBBBA and further meeting American agriculture and seed industry priorities through future legislation.”
As the seed industry begins to assess how provisions will roll out, ASTA’s involvement in shaping and implementing the next phase of policy will prove pivotal.
