Reps. McDonald Rivet, Huizenga Introduce Bill to Remove Barriers for Rural Homebuyers

WASHINGTON— Today, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04) introduced the Fostering the Availability in Rural Markets of (FARM) Home Loans Act of 2025. This bill, supported by Democrats and Republicans, would qualify more rural homebuyers for financial assistance.

“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.”

“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 “The FARM Home Loans Act modernizes outdated financing options for Michiganders who proudly fuel and depend on agricultural production.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.”

Farm credit institutions offer flexible financial assistance for rural homebuyers, but under the current definition of “rural area” in the Farm Credit Act of 1971, farm credit institutions can only lend to homeowners in areas with a population of 2,500 or less. The FARM Home Loans Act of 2025 would raise the population limit from 2,500 to 10,000, allowing more communities to qualify for rural housing assistance for homebuyers. 

The FARM Home Loans Act of 2025 is endorsed by the Farm Credit Council.

“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.”