Polish President Nawrocki Signs Agricultural Insurance Reform as Draft Village Protection Law Sparks Controversy

President Karol Nawrocki signed an amendment to the Polish Act on agricultural and livestock insurance on 18 July 2026. The law, effective 1 September 2026, simplifies the calculation of premium subsidies, removes the link between subsidy eligibility and soil classification, and expands state-supported crops to include willow for weaving and seed grasses. The state will continue to cover up to 65% of insurance premiums, aiming to lower costs for farmers and increase uptake of protective policies.

Separately, a draft legislation known as "Lex Smród" or "Lex Rolnik" is being prepared to protect the productive functions of rural areas. The proposal would require buyers of rural property to declare awareness of potential agricultural nuisances such as noise or odor before purchase. Several Polish municipalities have already adopted similar resolution templates circulated by regional agricultural chambers. Critics argue the draft could limit villagers' rights and treat small farms and large industrial farms alike, raising concerns about environmental and community impacts.