WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, highlighted the broad support his new report, America’s Aging Farm Workforce: Why Vanishing Family Farms are a Growing Threat to U.S. Food Security and Rural Communities, has garnered from leaders in the U.S. agriculture community. Chairman Scott’s report emphasizes the urgent challenges of America’s aging farm workforce. With one-third of farmers over 65 and a median age of 58, agriculture is the nation’s oldest workforce, and we’re seeing fewer young people follow in their parents’ footsteps by not entering the field. This trend is threatening America’s food security and the sustainability of rural communities. Thanks to President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, immediate action is being taken to curb this crisis, prioritize American agriculture, and ensure these communities thrive for generations to come.
Wilton Simpson, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture said, "If we fail to cultivate the next generation of American farmers and ranchers, we risk our food security and, in turn, our national security. With an aging workforce and millions of acres of farmland on the verge of changing hands, the future of food production in America hangs in the balance. We must act at both the state and federal levels to remove barriers, strengthen support systems, and protect our farmland from hostile foreign interests. I appreciate Senator Rick Scott for his leadership and for bringing national attention to this issue — because securing the future of American agriculture is securing the future of America itself."
Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm Bureau Federation said, “As many farmers and ranchers reach retirement age, they face uncertainty over the future of their farms, which in many cases have been in the family for several generations. High production costs, competition for land and shrinking paychecks are constant threats to the sustainability of a farm. Add to that the estate tax bill for heirs and it becomes clear why the next generation is hesitant to make farming a career. We thank Sen. Scott and the Special Committee on Aging for their work in recommending solutions to ensure farmers can continue stocking the pantries of America’s families.”
Terry Kippley, President & CEO, Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology said, “Senator Scott’s report underscores a growing crisis in American agriculture. The data is clear—our farming population is aging rapidly, and without targeted action, we risk losing family farms and, with them, the backbone of rural America and our national food supply. CPDA is committed to working with Senator Scott to craft long-term solutions that invest in the next generation of farmers, reduce regulatory barriers, and ensure growers have access to the tools and technologies they need to thrive. As Farm Bill discussions continue, this is a critical moment to prioritize policies that keep American agriculture strong, sustainable, and secure.”
Jeb Smith, President, Florida Farm Bureau Federation said, “The U.S. Senate’s report on America’s aging farm workforce shines a critical spotlight on a challenge Florida farmers know all too well. As our producers grow older, we face an urgent need to bring the next generation into agriculture. I commend Senator Scott and the Senate Special Committee on Aging for highlighting this issue and calling for action. Ensuring the future of American farming means supporting policies that strengthen rural communities, reduce barriers for young producers, and preserve the legacy of family farms across Florida and the nation.”
Chairman’s Scott’s policy recommendations include:
Read the entire report HERE.
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