Next Generation Farmer Act

This bill makes it easier for new farmers and ranchers to get federal farm ownership loans. It lowers the experience needed from three years to one year. It also lets the Agriculture Department waive that one-year rule in certain cases—like if the person has meaningful experience as hired farm labor with management duties, or has a trusted mentor who is an experienced or retired farmer, or a local operator or group approved to provide mentoring. These changes aim to help more beginners buy or expand a farm or ranch.

Key points:

• Who is affected: Beginning farmers and ranchers seeking farm ownership loans.
• What changes: Cuts required experience from 3 years to 1 year; allows waivers if the applicant has qualifying work experience or a mentoring relationship through approved programs like SCORE or local mentors.
• Why it matters: More beginners could qualify to buy land or start a farm or ranch, speeding up entry into agriculture.