Press Releases

Yesterday, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI) introduced H.R. 6720, the Fostering the Availability in Rural Markets of (FARM) Home Loans Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation would improve housing affordability in rural communities. By updating the numerical definition of what constitutes a rural community – raising it from a population of 2,500 to 10,000 – this bill will provide Southwest Michigan residents greater accessibility to affordable financing options.

“Whether it’s a farm operating loan or a home loan, having access to capital through the Farm Credit System is critical for communities across rural areas of Southwest Michigan,” said Congressman Huizenga. “The FARM Home Loans Act modernizes outdated financing options for Michiganders who proudly fuel and depend on agricultural production. Updating this one-size-fits-all statute will spur economic growth and job creation in rural areas, while improving housing options in agricultural communities.”

“Buying a home is one of the great promises of the American Dream, but for too many, that promise is out of reach. We need to fix the housing crisis and break down the barriers that hold rural families back,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “Our bill will make thousands of American homes eligible for farm credit loans, bringing those families one step closer to making their dream of homeownership a reality.”

The FARM Home Loans Act has garnered support from organizations critical to the agriculture community.

“We appreciate Congresswoman Kristen McDonald‑Rivet and Congressman Bill Huizenga for championing and introducing Farm Credit’s FARM Home Loans Act,” said Travis Jones, CEO of GreenStone Farm Credit Services. “This effort will help deliver attainable, quality housing in rural communities and support the people and businesses that want to live, work, and raise their families in rural communities.”

“Farm Credit Council thanks Representatives Kristen McDonald Rivet and Bill Huizenga for introducing this important legislation. Finding a lender to purchase a home in a rural community is often difficult because of the unique qualities of rural properties,” said Christy Seyfert, President and CEO of the Farm Credit Council. “Allowing Farm Credit to serve the credit needs of home buyers in rural communities with populations of up to 10,000 will ensure more Americans are able to move to or remain in rural areas which will ensure the continued vitality of rural communities.”