Federal crop insurance bill would add harvest incentive for farmers

What does this do?

HR 5633 directs the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation to research and develop a new crop insurance policy that covers revenue losses and includes a harvest incentive to encourage farmers to bring in their crops. The agency must make the policy available to farmers within two years of enactment and report to Congress on its progress within one year. The policy cannot go live until the agency meets existing legal requirements, and the bill does not guarantee the product will be created.

Who does it affect?

The bill primarily affects American farmers who participate in federal crop insurance programs, which includes a large portion of the country's agricultural producers. Consumers and the broader food system may be indirectly affected if more crops reach harvest rather than being left in the field.

Why does it matter?

Current federal crop insurance pays out when crops are damaged or destroyed but does not specifically incentivize farmers to harvest under difficult conditions. Adding a harvest incentive could affect how much of the food supply actually moves through the supply chain, with downstream effects on food availability.

Where does it stand?