Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Jackson, Brownley, and Salinas Introduce the “Empowering Women in Agriculture Act”
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL), Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR), and Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the Empowering Women in Agriculture Act. This critical piece of legislation is designed to dismantle the barriers impeding women’s participation and representation in agriculture.
“The Empowering Women in Agriculture Act is not just a bill; it’s a call to action,” said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. “By ensuring targeted funding and resources are reaching women, we can empower our female farmers, support their contributions to our nation’s agricultural sector, and combat the systemic challenges they face.”
Historically, women farmers, particularly Black female farmers, have faced numerous obstacles, including underrepresentation and inadequate access to federal programs. Women, representing just over a third of U.S. farmers, have historically faced significant barriers when seeking farm loans, including rejection, unfair terms, and excessive supervision. A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report commissioned by the 2018 Farm Bill reveals that women make up a disproportionately small percentage of agricultural producers, with many reporting discrimination in accessing agricultural credit. The report also confirms that female farmers receive a disproportionately low number of USDA loans.
The Empowering Women in Agriculture Act seeks to amend the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (FARM Bill) to address these critical issues by:
Mandating that at least 10% of federal funds be allocated specifically to women-focused organizations.
Including women in the definition of “socially disadvantaged farmer or rancher” within Title 7 U.S. Code § 2279.
Enhancing equitable access to funding and resources for organizations serving disadvantaged farmers and
Promoting gender equity by boosting opportunities for Black female farmers and other underrepresented groups.
“Historically and culturally, Black women, mothers, and grandmothers were the primary farmers. Today, Black women make up less than 2% of all farmers. The underrepresentation is not for lack of desire, but lack of opportunity and access. The struggle is real when it comes to accessing federal programs and initiatives. The Empowering Women in Agriculture Act is one step closer to leveling the playing field in helping to support minority and women farmers,” said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson.
“California’s 26th Congressional District is home to a vibrant agriculture industry, and we are proud of our rich heritage. To keep our agricultural economy strong, we need to continue to nurture and support the next generation of growers, including bringing more women into this critical industry,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “I appreciate Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick’s strong leadership in introducing the Empowering Women in Agriculture Act, and I am proud to support the bill.”
“Women farmers — particularly women of color — have largely been left out of receiving federal assistance, which has contributed to the steady decline in our agriculture industry over the years,” said Congresswoman Andrea Salinas. “That’s why I’m honored to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to expand outreach and assistance for women farmers. By providing more funding for women in agriculture, our bill would both promote diversity and give rural communities a much-needed boost.”
“Women Farmers deserve a sustainable seat at the agriculture table,” said Dr. Tammy-Steele, Director of the National Women in Agriculture Association. “The Empowering Women in Agriculture Act (EWA) will set aside resources that will guarantee women farmers equitable resources that have never been provided and make new history to assist women farmers in the male-dominated agriculture industry.”
The bill text for the “Empowering Women in Agriculture Act” can be found here.
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