Full Committee Markup of FY27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Bill

The House Appropriations Committee conducted a markup of the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, which proposes a $26.27 billion discretionary budget—a 1.4% decrease from the previous year. Proponents argue the legislation prioritizes fiscal responsibility and essential agricultural functions, while critics contend that significant cuts to the WIC program, rural water infrastructure, and energy initiatives threaten vulnerable populations and rural economic development. Debate focused on the potential impact of reduced nutrition benefits on women and children, the necessity of maintaining rural utility grants, and the FDA’s role in food safety and vaccine oversight. The committee ultimately rejected several amendments aimed at restoring funding for nutrition and infrastructure programs, while adopting measures addressing infant formula safety and the phase-out of harmful petroleum-based food dyes.