Federal Program Updates: Professional Overview
Jan 28, 2026
Producer Ag Crop Insurance continues to keep our clients informed regarding recent program changes, official announcements, and ongoing challenges within the agricultural sector. USDA and FSA initiatives have become increasingly significant, impacting growers nationwide. Below is a summary of the key topics frequently discussed with our insured producers. For additional details or personalized guidance, please contact one of the Producer Ag Crop Insurance Specialists.
OBBB Crop Insurance Summary
1. Enhanced Crop Insurance Solutions
OBBB has expanded financial support for new insurance products, increased subsidies, and introduced greater flexibility—empowering growers to protect their income and mitigate risk more effectively.2. Improved ARC & PLC Reference Prices
Reference prices have increased by 10%–20%, with an added inflation adjustment to help stabilize revenues for operations producing corn, soybeans, wheat, and milo.
3. Streamlined 2025 Program Year
For 2025, growers will automatically receive the higher benefit between ARC and PLC, with annual program elections resuming in 2026.4. Revised Payment Limits
Payment limits have increased to $155,000 and will adjust for inflation. Multi-entity operations may now qualify for expanded eligibility.5. Broadened Disaster & Conservation Program Access
The removal of the $900,000 AGI cap (for those with at least 75% farm income) allows more producers to access emergency and conservation support programs.6. Enhanced Risk Management
OBBB fortifies agricultural safety nets against variable rainfall, hail, drought, and market volatility, providing growers with increased financial security.SDRP Program: Key Features Comparison
| Feature | SDRP Stage 1 | SDRP Stage 2 |
| Intended for | Losses triggering crop insurance or NAP payments | Losses not triggering payments or uninsured losses |
| Loss Types Covered | Indemnified losses | Shallow, uninsured, and quality losses |
| Prefilled Application | Yes | Yes |
| Sign-up Window | Began July 10, 2025 | November 24, 2025 – April 30, 2026 |
| Quality Loss Assistance | Partial | Full |
| Walk-ins Allowed | No | No – appointment required |
| Multi-County Farming | N/A | Single application for all counties |
| Funding Distributed | $5.7B+ (as of Nov 2025) | Approx. $10B remaining |