Next Generation of Farmers Act of 2025

The Next Generation of Farmers Act of 2025 would amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to loosen the eligibility standards for direct farm real estate loans. Specifically, it would allow the Secretary to make direct loans to farmers or ranchers who have at least 1 year of substantial participation in farm management and operations, or who have other acceptable education or experience as determined by the Secretary. It also reduces the time requirements in related eligibility provisions (changing several 3-year standards to 1 year, and in one case to 6 months). In short, the bill broadens who can qualify for direct farm real estate loans, aiming to expand access to land ownership for newer or less-experienced farmers.