WASHINGTON, Feb. 18, 2026 — The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance (SCFBA) issued the following statement regarding the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 released by House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson.
“The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance commends Chairman Thompson and his staff for advancing the farm bill process and including key provisions that would enhance the competitiveness of the family farms that produce specialty crops across the United States. This legislation builds on critical investments made by H.R. 1 last year, closely aligns with the priorities of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, and includes some of the most significant enhancements to specialty crop programs in years.
“At a time when our producers confront unprecedented economic challenges, we are grateful that the Chairman’s bill would require the United States Department of Agriculture to create the first-ever Specialty Crop Emergency Assistance Framework. Based on the widely successful CFAP-2 and MASC programs, this framework would establish the parameters of a unique payment structure to compensate specialty crop producers in times of need. Not included in the 2024 version of this legislation, this provision is another clear signal that specialty crops are fundamentally different than row crops and need their own program at USDA for delivering economic aid.
“Enacting a full five-year farm bill is critical to the continued sustainability of American agriculture and the communities specialty crop producers serve.”
The SCFBA is co-chaired by Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association; Mike Joyner, President of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association; Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers; and Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council.
