Yellowhammer Times

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville has reintroduced two bills aimed at supporting Alabama’s agricultural sector. The proposed legislation, the Farm Board Act and the Mid-South Oilseed Double Cropping Study Act, are designed to improve market access and opportunities for local farmers.

“Our farmers, foresters, and livestock producers shoulder an enormous burden of keeping America’s food secure,” said Senator Tuberville. “They need to be able to make a living off the land, and they need to have a FCIC Board of Directors that fully reflects their needs. I’m proud to reintroduce legislation that strengthens representation on the FCIC Board, and another piece of legislation that would help solidify a new revenue opportunity for our farmers while also addressing the growing need for renewable diesels and synthetic aviation fuels. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Ag Committee, I’ll continue fighting to secure opportunities for our ag producers as they feed, fuel, and clothe our country.”

Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate expressed his support: “I commend Coach on each piece of legislation. The Farm Board Act will ensure representation for production agriculture to the FCIC Board of Directors while the Mid-South Oil Seed Bill will help pave the way for another alternative crop for producers to consider growing based on the demand for renewable fuel. I look forward to Coach getting each bill to the finish line.”

Jimmy Parnell, President of Alabama Farmers Federation, also voiced approval: “We appreciate Coach’s continued support of Alabama farmers and his steadfast dedication to supporting innovation while managing risk by increasing availability and oversight of crop insurance programs. With more offerings than ever for livestock producers, it is important these farmers have representation on the FCIC Board. Additionally, as farmers are looking at alternative crops to supplement their income, the Mid-South Oilseed Double Cropping Study Act will help to make sure they have the appropriate risk management tools available.”

The Farm Board Act proposes a change in how members are selected for the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) Board of Directors. It would require that one producer among those serving on its ten-member board be someone who produces both livestock and crops—a move supporters say would better address issues relevant to Alabama's diverse agriculture industry. This designated seat would take effect when current board members cycle off beginning May 1, 2027.

Multiple organizations back this proposal including American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA), Alabama Department of Ag & Industries, and Alabama Cattlemen’s Association.

The second bill calls for a study by USDA’s Risk Management Agency into winter oilseed crops such as canola and rapeseed in states like Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky. The aim is to evaluate whether these crops can be used as secondary or rotational plantings after soybeans—a practice already underway among some growers—which could expand revenue streams during winter months while helping reduce soil nutrient loss.

Advocates point out that producing canola may open up new markets due to its use in making Synthetic Aviation Fuel (SAF). They note that with global jet fuel demand expected to increase significantly by 2050—more than doubling from current levels—ensuring insurance coverage options like Catastrophic Risk Protection or Revenue Protection becomes increasingly important so local farmers can take part in this expanding market.

The U.S. Canola Association, National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA), ALFA, and Alabama Department of Ag & Industries all support this measure.

Senator Tuberville serves on several Senate committees including Agriculture; Armed Services; Veterans’ Affairs; HELP; and Aging.