Committee approves joint study committee on farm economy amid concerns about farmer losses

The committee approved House Resolution 1416, establishing a nine-member joint House–Senate study committee to examine challenges facing Georgia’s agricultural economy.

The chair framed the resolution as a response to mounting pressures on farmers, saying the state must seek solutions beyond documenting the problem. The chair told the committee that "Georgia farmers lost about $800,000,000 in 2025" and described other large figures and concerning survey results, including a reported 42 percent figure tied to farmer mental health; he urged a study that would bring experts together and explore state-level responses alongside federal efforts.

Representative Meeks said the chairman and sponsors view food security as national security and emphasized the need for cooperative work between state and federal actors. The resolution specifies nine appointees: three selected by the speaker of the House, three by the president of the Senate and additional members including representatives of the agriculture commission.

The committee moved and passed the resolution by voice vote. Sponsors said a similar Senate measure is expected and both chambers will coordinate on which version to move forward to the governor’s desk.

Next steps: The study committee will be formed with appointed members to meet over the summer and fall; the resolution passed committee and will proceed through the legislative process for final approval.