WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate Agriculture Committee advanced the Agricultural Act of 2026 on a 12-11 vote Wednesday, moving Farm Bill 2.0 toward consideration by the full Senate. The vote gives producers a clearer path forward on legislation covering farm programs, credit, rural development, research, conservation, and year-round E15.
The committee reconvened a business meeting that had recessed August 6 after the bill failed to advance. Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky returned and voted yes, helping produce the 12-11 final tally.
Chairman John Boozman said the committee had already worked through all 12 titles before the August recess and returned Wednesday to finish the reporting vote. Staff were then authorized to make technical and conforming changes.
Farm groups quickly welcomed the action, while several organizations urged Congress to keep negotiating. Commodity groups highlighted provisions involving credit, research, trade, Food for Peace, specialty crops, and year-round E15.
The bill now moves toward Senate floor consideration, where additional amendments could be offered. If the Senate passes its version, lawmakers would still need to reconcile differences with the House before final legislation could reach the president.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Senate committee approval moves Farm Bill 2.0 into its next stage, with floor debate and potential amendments still ahead..