2018 Farm Bill Extends into 2026

The future of non-GMO agriculture is being shaped by an unexpected pause. Congress’s extension of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 through fiscal year 2025 stabilizes the current year but leaves producers entering 2026 without new programs, updated incentives, or modernized policies. Key federal initiatives affecting non-GMO and organic-adjacent farms remain in place, including the National Organic Program, organic certification cost-share, and several research and conservation efforts. The USDA Economic Research Service notes that the original 2018 Farm Bill increased funding for organic research and support programs, and these authorities continue under the extension

Yet the short duration of the extension delays meaningful structural updates. Proposals related to non-GMO identity preserved systems, specialty crop support, regenerative transition assistance, and expanded supply chain grants remain inactive until Congress completes the next full farm bill. As a result, competitive advantage in 2026 is more likely to come from state programs, private contracting, value chain partnerships, and market positioning rather than new federal directives. Producers moving toward non-GMO or organic systems must rely on existing tools, which could limit the pace of adoption.

As Congress begins work on the next farm bill, the stakes are significant. The outcome will determine whether non-GMO systems simply hold steady or gain strategic support to expand and strengthen market access.

Sources: Congress.gov; USDA ERS; USDA National Organic Program; National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.