Secretary of Agriculture Opposes California’s Land Redistribution Proposal

(Washington, D.C., December 11, 2025) — In a bold move, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins addressed a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom, urging the state to reconsider a controversial proposal aiming to redistribute agricultural land based on race, ethnicity, and national origin. This communication comes as the California Land Equity Task Force reviews a draft proposal intended to facilitate land transfers and offer financial assistance to select minority groups.

Concerns Over Constitutional Viability

Rollins articulated significant constitutional concerns regarding the proposal. “The proposed policies would grievously harm farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers,” the Secretary stated, emphasizing that “all people should be treated equally.” She further noted that the initiative unfairly targets those who contribute tirelessly to America’s agricultural sector, arguing that these individuals deserve equitable opportunities regardless of their background.

Background on the Task Force

The California Agricultural Land Equity Task Force was established in 2022 by the state legislature with the objective to provide recommendations aimed at increasing access to agricultural land for minority farmers and indigenous tribes. Currently, the task force is considering a draft report set to be submitted to the legislature by January 1, 2026.

Proposed Actions from the Draft Report

The draft report outlines several recommendations, asserting that increasing diversity within agriculture could yield ecological benefits and enhance climate resilience. Notable proposals include:

1. Local ordinances restricting land purchases to certain minority groups.
2. State and non-profit purchases of private land exclusively for lease to minority farmers.
3. Exclusive leasing of state lands to select minorities.
4. Dedicated funding for agricultural land acquisition by specific minority groups.
5. Special tax credits for minorities, covering agricultural land, infrastructure, and education.
6. Transferring public land solely to tribes.
7. Targeted private land transfers to tribes and specific minority communities, particularly African Americans in California.
8. Debt forgiveness programs limited to certain minority groups.
9. Implementation of zoning laws for “equitable” land access and climate-friendly agricultural practices.
10. Prioritizing conservation efforts for minority farmers.

Conclusion

As discussions around this proposal ensue, the Secretary’s objections highlight the ongoing debate about equity in agriculture and the need to balance differing interests. With a pending deadline for the task force’s recommendations, the future of California’s agricultural landscape remains uncertain.

For more details, you can view the full letter from Secretary Rollins here and access the draft report from California.