At Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon, we are encouraged by the release of the proposed Farm Bill put forward by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, which comes at a critical moment for Oregonians. This bill introduces critical provisions, including maintaining 2018 Thrifty Food Plan investments and improving SNAP accessibility. These measures are essential steps toward addressing food insecurity, particularly in rural areas facing heightened hunger rates. The Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act allocates $39 billion in resources, providing long-term stability for farmers, rural communities, and families in need.

BIPOC communities consistently face hunger rates that are twice as high as those of other demographic groups. We are encouraged by the inclusion of several key provisions in the Farm Bill from Senator Stabenow, which align with the demands of BIPOC-led advocacy groups. These provisions include repealing the lifetime federal ban on individuals with felony drug convictions from receiving SNAP, creating a path for Puerto Rico to transition from the block grant Nutrition Assistance Program to SNAP, and supporting Tribal sovereignty by making the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) pilot program permanent. The bill also expands Tribal authority to administer FDPIR and The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) while providing procurement flexibilities. Additionally, it allows households that participate in FDPIR to also access SNAP benefits and includes measures to improve the security of Electronic Benefit Transfer cards to prevent theft and ensure reimbursement for stolen SNAP benefits. These steps are crucial in addressing the unique challenges faced by BIPOC communities.

Over the past two years, hunger rates in rural Oregon have doubled, highlighting an urgent need for targeted interventions. The proposed Farm Bill takes steps to address this crisis through investments in rural infrastructure, childcare, healthcare, and SNAP. By prioritizing these areas, the bill acknowledges the interconnected challenges rural families face. Additionally, policies like expanding SNAP access for service members and fostering Tribal sovereignty through permanent FDPIR programs are vital to rural resilience.

While the bill makes strides, it misses an opportunity to fully protect immigrant communities. SNAP remains inaccessible for many due to eligibility restrictions. This is a glaring gap, especially given the example set by Oregon’s Food for All Oregonians (FFAO) policy, which could expand benefits for all residents regardless of immigration status in the 2025 legislative session.

The Farm Bill now enters a critical phase, but it’s an uphill battle. With hunger impacting millions across the country, it’s essential for legislators to seize this moment to strengthen the final bill before its passage and signature by the president.

We call on Congress and the incoming administration to prioritize bold solutions for rural communities. As rural America faces urgent challenges, this Farm Bill is a step forward—but more action is needed. 

Call to Action

Join us by signing our letter urging Congress to pass a Farm Bill that supports all communities. Together, we can ensure access to the food, resources, and opportunities necessary for thriving families.