By Andi Anderson
Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has unveiled its 2026 legislative priorities aimed at improving the outlook for Indiana agriculture and rural communities.
With farm debt rising and economic pressures mounting, the organization is calling for stronger state policies to protect farmers and sustain rural livelihoods.
“Last year we were laser focused on tax legislation,” said INFB President Randy Kron. “This year, we need the General Assembly to consider legislation that will protect farms and rural communities to ensure safe, affordable food not just for Hoosiers but for people all over the world.”
Among the top priorities is encouraging greater investment in agriculture. INFB plans to advocate for long-term property tax reform to ease financial strain on farmers.
Kron noted that tax relief from the 2025 session did not make a big enough impact, emphasizing that high input costs, rising land values, and taxes are squeezing farm profits.
Strengthening rural communities remains another central focus. INFB supports initiatives that bolster infrastructure, education, healthcare, and emergency services to sustain rural life and the agricultural workforce.
“Emergency medical services, fire and police are essential to keep rural communities surviving long term,” said Katie Nelson, INFB’s executive director of public policy.
The organization also prioritizes farmland preservation and modernized land use policies. A 2024 state study showed Indiana lost nearly 350,000 acres of farmland from 2010 to 2022, mostly to development. INFB aims to protect prime agricultural soils and promote smart zoning practices to safeguard food security.
Water management and energy policy—particularly the growing interest in nuclear energy—also remain key discussion areas.
INFB’s policy agenda reflects input from county-level members and delegates. Leaders will present these legislative goals at the annual Organization Day Breakfast on November 18 before the 2026 Indiana General Assembly convenes in January.
“Food security is national security,” Nelson added. “Farmers must have a voice in shaping policies that determine the future of agriculture.”
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle