House Agriculture Chair Glenn Thompson has proposed a five-year farm bill that borrows policy ideas from Democrats but sets up clashes on conservation and nutrition programs. The farm bill authorizes programs throughout the Department of Agriculture, a focus for Democrats and environmental groups pursuing farming practices that reduce emissions tied to climate change. It also provides financial safety for farmers, promotes environmental protection and helps rural communities with projects such as sewage treatment to high-speed Internet. The bill is set for committee consideration on May 23. However, critics argue that removing the climate-related focus would undermine their biggest victory on climate policy under the Biden administration. The Environmental Defense Fund warns that backing away from the IRA’s focus on climate change would disadvantage agricultural areas feeling the brunt of the warming climate.
Solar Dominates US Energy Capacity Growth
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has published data showing that solar accounted for over 75% of US electrical generating
