American Farm Bureau Federation

American Farm Bureau Federation
Name	American Farm Bureau Federation
Founded	0 1919
Location	Washington, D.C., United States
Key people	Zippy Duvall (President)
Website	https://www.fb.org/

American Farm Bureau Federation. The American Farm Bureau Federation is the largest general farm organization in the United States, representing the interests of agricultural producers and rural communities. Founded in 1919, it operates as a federation of state and county Farm Bureau organizations. The organization is a powerful voice in agricultural policy, engaging in extensive lobbying, educational programs, and providing a range of services to its members.

History

The organization was founded in 1919 in Chicago, Illinois, emerging from the County Agent system established by the Smith-Lever Act of 1914. Early leaders like James R. Howard and Oscar Bradfute helped shape its initial focus on improving farm productivity and cooperative extension. Throughout the 20th century, it played a significant role in shaping major legislation, including the Agricultural Adjustment Act during the New Deal and various Farm Bill negotiations. Its political influence grew substantially, particularly through its long-standing relationship with the Republican Party, though it works with legislators across the political spectrum. Key historical moments include its advocacy during the Dust Bowl era and its support for international trade agreements like the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Organization and structure

The organization is structured as a bottom-up federation, with its grassroots foundation in over 2,800 county Farm Bureau chapters. These county units are members of their respective state Farm Bureau organizations, which in turn are voting members of the national federation. The national headquarters is located in Washington, D.C., with a major public policy and lobbying presence, while the American Farm Bureau Insurance Services and other business units are based in Park Ridge, Illinois. Governance is provided by a board of directors composed primarily of state Farm Bureau presidents, with national officers like President Zippy Duvall elected by delegates at the annual convention. Major internal bodies include the Women's Leadership Committee and the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee.

Policy positions and advocacy

The organization advocates for policies promoting a favorable business climate for agriculture, including reduced regulatory burdens, tax relief, and strong property rights. It is a staunch proponent of free trade, having supported agreements like the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement. Key advocacy areas include reforming the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, supporting the Renewable Fuel Standard, and opposing stringent environmental regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency. It frequently files amicus curiae briefs in pivotal Supreme Court of the United States cases affecting agriculture, such as those involving the Waters of the United States rule. Its lobbying arm is one of the most influential in Washington, D.C., working closely with committees like the United States House Committee on Agriculture.

Programs and services

Members have access to a wide array of business services, often provided through affiliated companies like FBL Financial Group for insurance and Farm Bureau Bank for financial services. The organization runs prominent public outreach campaigns, including the Food and Farm Facts educational program. It sponsors competitive and leadership development initiatives through its Young Farmers & Ranchers program, which includes events like the Discussion Meet and Achievement Award. Additional member benefits include discounts on John Deere equipment, Ford Motor Company vehicles, and Hertz rentals, as well as specialized programs for agricultural labor safety and risk management.

Affiliated organizations

The organization maintains a network of affiliated but legally separate entities that implement its service mission. These include the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, which focuses on agricultural literacy and education. The American Farm Bureau Insurance Services oversees the federation's extensive insurance offerings. Its political action committee, the American Farm Bureau Federation PAC (AFBF PAC), is a major contributor to federal political campaigns. Other key affiliates are the Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee and the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee, which operate at both state and national levels to engage specific member demographics.

Controversies and criticism

The organization has faced significant criticism from environmental groups like the Sierra Club and Natural Resources Defense Council for its positions on climate change, pesticide regulation, and clean water rules. It has been involved in high-profile legal disputes, notably its opposition to the Affordable Care Act's employer mandate in the case of National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius. Internal tensions have occasionally surfaced, such as debates over dairy policy and ethanol subsidies. Critics, including the Humane Society of the United States, have also accused it of obstructing animal welfare reforms and maintaining overly close ties with agribusiness corporations like Monsanto and Smithfield Foods.

Category:Agricultural organizations based in the United States Category:Organizations based in Washington, D.C. Category:Organizations established in 1919