Sen. Grassley Questions Trump Nominee Richard Fordyce on Farm Payment Limits

Farm Program Payment Limitations

• 💡 Senator Grassley advocates for payment limits on farm subsidies to prevent large farms from becoming excessively larger through government support.
• 🎯 He argues that subsidizing large farms drives up land prices and cash rent, making it harder for young, new farmers to start.
• 🔑 The principle of a safety net, Grassley states, is to support small and medium-sized farmers who are vulnerable to factors beyond their control, such as price freezes or embargoes.

'Actively Engaged' Definition

• 🔍 Grassley expresses concern that the definition of 'actively engaged' in farm operations has been expanded by the Department of Agriculture, allowing individuals not directly involved in management to receive benefits.
• ⚠️ He suggests that regulations have gone too far, enabling even distant relatives (like third cousins) to benefit from family farm operations, which he deems incorrect.

Nominee's Response on Payment Limits

• 🤔 Richard Fordyce, the nominee for Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation, stated he had not