Agriculture groups applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026 this morning with a vote of 224-200. Next, the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry will develop their version of the bill for consideration on the Senate floor.

In dairy-related news the last week of April 2026: The USDA eases requirement for HPAI testing of dairy cows for interstate movement, a few dairy-related bills have been placed before Congress, the USDA issues second supplemental disaster payment to farmers, leaders elect board officers to guide dairy checkoff strategy, and the National FFA Organization partners with World Dairy Expo.

After a markup session lasting more than 20 hours, the U.S. House Agriculture Committee advanced the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 out of committee with a 34-17 vote. 

On Feb. 13, the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture released the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026.

There is finally light at the end of the tunnel after weeks of disruptions caused by the record-setting 43-day government shutdown and ongoing disputes in Congress over a continuing resolution package. On Nov. 12, lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives voted 222 to 209 to pass a continuing resolution to fund the government through Jan. 30, 2026, and it was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump that evening.