The Alabama Farmers Federation entered the year primed to protect and support farmers’ interests as the Alabama Legislature began the 2026 regular session Jan. 13.

Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin said the main goal is defending access to Alfa Health Plans. Members appreciated overwhelming legislative approval of a 2025 measure allowing the Federation to sell health coverage to its members, Hardin said. 

“Passing Alfa Health Plans was a monumental victory for Federation members,” Hardin said. “We appreciate the support from House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville; Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman; Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur; and Rep. David Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook, in making these plans a reality. Now active, our goal is to ensure this remains an affordable option without unnecessary regulation.” 

Another priority is agriculture and forestry line items funding. One area of concern involves the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) program, which received decreased funding last year in the 2026 General Fund. 

“The CAFO line item is designed to offset farmers’ financial burden by funding the regulatory program,” Hardin said. “With decreased funding last year, farmers are at risk of paying out of pocket to cover regulation. It’s a priority to restore CAFO financing to protect our farmers and the environment.” 

Federation General Fund budget priorities include Sweet Grown Alabama and a statewide feral swine program, along with agribusiness education, affiliate FFA membership and extended contracts for agriscience teachers in the Education Trust Fund budget. 

Despite over 100 bills being pre-filed prior to the session, Hardin said the key this year is keeping pace with the fast-moving Legislature. 

“Although the last possible day is in late April, the expectation is an earlier conclusion due to primary elections in May,” Hardin said. “Due to the likelihood of a fast-paced session, it is important members stay engaged. Our main goal is to make sure member needs are represented to make farms more sustainable, whether protecting their option for a quality health plan or reducing taxes and regulatory burdens.”

Other issues lawmakers are expected to debate include career technical education, rural health care, mental health, health insurance costs for the state, crime, property rights and utility tax exemptions for farmers.