Thompson bill helps novice farmers get a leg up on buying new land

U.S. Rep. Glenn “G.T.” Thompson (R-PA) recently introduced the Farmers of Tomorrow Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen future farm ownership by easing the path to new land purchases by young farmers and veterans starting out in farming.

“Access to land is essential for supporting the next generation of farmers and growing American agriculture,” Thompson said. “This common sense legislation will further encourage new farmers and help strengthen rural communities. I am particularly pleased that the bill increases new farming opportunities for our men and women in uniform who have honorably served.”

Farm affordability is a high hurdle for aspiring farmers at a time when attracting new farmers is critical. For every farmer under age 35, there are six over age 65, according to Thompson’s office. Although new and novice farmers can get U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) loans for land purchase, many are left out because of outdated experience requirements that do not reflect contemporary career paths toward farming that future farmers might have taken.

H.R. 4513 would allow successful completion of a military leadership course, an honorable U.S. military discharge, at least one year of business management, or an established relationship with an approved farm or ranch mentor, among other experiences, to count in fulfilling the USDA three-year experience requirement to access financing.

Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-IL) joined Thompson in introducing the bill.

Bustos noted the importance of enticing young people and veterans to pursue careers in agriculture.

“Lack of access to land is the top reason that too many aspiring young farmers end up choosing another career,” Bustos said. “This bill allows more new and beginning farmers to get loans, buy land, and begin their future in farming. I’m grateful to Congressman Thompson for working with me on this bipartisan legislation.”