Federal officials question whether proposed land-transfer policies comply with equal-protection standards.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins sent a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom outlining constitutional concerns with a draft proposal under review by the state’s Agricultural Land Equity Task Force. The proposal would encourage land transfers, financial assistance, tax incentives, and leasing arrangements for agricultural land based on race, ethnicity, or national origin. The task force was created by the state legislature in 2022 and is expected to submit final recommendations by January 2026.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) letter outlined policies tied to specific demographic criteria that could conflict with federal constitutional requirements and affect farmers and ranchers who do not qualify under the proposed framework. The draft report under review includes recommendations related to land acquisition, leasing, conservation program prioritization, zoning practices, and debt relief that would apply only to certain groups.
“Hardworking farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers all deserve a shot at the American dream, and they should not be stigmatized, demeaned, or shut out of opportunities because of their race, sex, ethnicity, or national origin,” Secretary Rollins stated.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Rollins as she oversees reviews of state land-use policies.
- For federal and state officials as they engage in discussions regarding policies that impact farmers, tribes, and rural communities.
- For farmers and ranchers across California who may be impacted by future land-access and conservation decisions.
Sources: Department of Agriculture
