President Donald Trump on Friday unveiled a set of initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and food producers amid rising energy costs affecting the agricultural sector. The plan includes regulatory adjustments, expanded loan guarantees, and additional relief funding targeted at farming operations.
Speaking on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump emphasized efforts to lower equipment costs and improve access to financing for farmers nationwide. “Every day, we’re finding new ways to back our farmers, reduce their expenses, and help lower food prices for American families,” he said. “The golden age of American agriculture is happening now.”
Trump also urged Congress to pass a new farm bill and indicated he will request further funding in the next spending package. He highlighted $12 billion in prior support delivered through tariffs and criticized the Biden administration for policies he says harmed farmers through regulations and trade decisions, which his administration aims to reverse.
Regulatory changes will include revising diesel emissions rules enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency, adjustments to Diesel Exhaust Fluid requirements, and selective catalytic reduction system rules—measures Trump said have added financial pressure on farmers. He also touted efforts to expand renewable fuel production linked to agricultural products.
Additionally, the Small Business Administration will broaden loan guarantees for agricultural small businesses, benefiting farmers, food suppliers, and producers across livestock and grain industries.
Separately, the House has passed the bipartisan Housing for the 21st Century Act with a 390-9 vote, aiming to modernize federal housing programs, reduce regulatory hurdles, and increase the nation’s housing supply. The legislation, co-sponsored by Reps. French Hill (R-AK) and Maxine Waters (D-CA), now moves to the Senate.
The bill directs the Government Accountability Office to identify gaps in federal housing programs, updates HUD’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and gives banks more flexibility to deploy capital toward expanding housing. House Speaker Mike Johnson framed the act as a response to soaring housing costs, stating it would reduce red tape, modernize HUD programs, and help increase affordable housing supply.
