America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural homeowners are facing increasing financial challenges. With the agricultural economy under pressure and nearly 70% of young farmers and ranchers identifying access to capital as a major hurdle, it’s time to take action.

The Access to Credit for the Rural Economy (ACRE) Act offers a practical, straightforward solution by improving access to affordable credit and lowering borrowing costs for agricultural producers. ACRE levels the playing field between community banks and the Farm Credit System by removing the taxation on interest income earned by a lender on farm real estate loans and home mortgage loans in rural areas and towns with populations of 2,500 or fewer.

By eliminating this taxation, community banks can finally match the pricing of lenders that already benefit from this tax treatment for rural loans. This will result in lower interest rates and expand access to low-cost credit sources throughout rural communities. In fact, it is estimated that ACRE could save rural communities $1.15 billion annually in interest savings—all without creating new government payments or programs.

Join the effort to strengthen rural America—ask your lawmakers to cosponsor S. 838 and H.R. 1822, the ACRE Act, and help secure a sustainable future for our nation’s farmers, ranchers, and rural homeowners.

We are asking all OBL members to send a letter to your member of the Ohio Congressional delegation asking them to co-sponsor the bill. These go directly to Representatives' offices, so personalizing your letter helps our message cut through the noise. Please consider including at the top of your letter:

• A little about your bank and the communities you serve.
• A specific example of how this provision would positively impact your specific local community.