WOYM - Senator Jerry Moran

In this special episode of Wheat’s On Your Mind, Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran joins Justin Gilpin and host Arron Harries to dive into the latest developments affecting wheat producers and rural Kansans. The trio breaks down the July 4th reconciliation bill, including major wins for agriculture—particularly the updated reference prices in Title I of the Farm Bill and expanded crop insurance options for producers. Senator Moran provides an insider’s look at how the reconciliation process enabled faster action, while also discussing the long-term impact of the newly secured disaster relief funding and broader economic support for rural communities. The conversation expands to cover national security, food aid, and export strategy, emphasizing the global importance of Kansas-grown wheat. Moran highlights programs like Food for Peace and McGovern-Dole, linking moral responsibility with economic benefit. From tariff negotiations to healthcare and rural hospital support, this episode blends ag policy and big-picture strategy in a way that's both practical and powerful for wheat growers and rural advocates. Key Takeaways: The reconciliation bill includes a “skinny” farm bill with updated Title I safety net provisions. Reference prices for wheat have been raised to $6.35/bushel—an 85-cent increase. Disaster relief and drought assistance are now available via USDA offices. Farmers can reallocate base acres with a one-time option. Tax code changes lock in favorable estate tax thresholds for rural producers. Export programs and food aid initiatives remain central to market development. U.S. Wheat Associates continue to broker international deals, like with Indonesia. Agriculture is increasingly seen as a national security priority. Kansas rural hospitals will benefit from nearly $6 billion in aid. Research funding, including genomic wheat research, received a boost. Timestamps: 00:40 – Introduction and Senator Moran’s role in ag policy 02:00 – Overview of the reconciliation bill and farm bill tie-ins 04:45 – Reconciliation vs. regular legislative process 06:30 – Reference price increases and crop insurance updates 09:10 – Drought disaster assistance and USDA rollout 11:30 – Rural tax benefits and estate tax provisions 13:15 – Ethanol, trade, and the importance of exports 16:00 – Food for Peace, McGovern-Dole, and global food aid 18:45 – Agriculture as national security and intelligence insights 21:10 – Funding for rural hospitals and broadband 23:00 – Wheat genetics and research investment updates 24:50 – What’s next: Skinny farm bill and future priorities Kansas Wheat Wheats On Your Mind