After days of debate and disagreements, the House Committee on Agriculture on Thursday passed its version of the 2026 Farm Bill, which includes controversial provisions critics say will hamper the ability of states to put in place strict rules for pesticides and animal welfare.
Lawmakers removed language in a 2026 federal spending bill that would’ve blocked lawsuits and limited state warnings on pesticide risks — a major win for public health advocates after intense lobbying. TNL Editor-in-Chief Carey Gillam explains.
A battle in Washington is unfolding over a proposal that could limit lawsuits against pesticide manufacturers. Supporters — including major chemical companies and some lawmakers — say it would protect farmer access to critical weed killers and other farm aids while preventing a patchwork of varying state rules. Critics argue it would strip away the rights of farmers and consumers to seek justice if pesticides cause harm.