Just days remain before current farm programs expire Sept. 30, reminds a coalition of ag organizations called Farm Bill Now. That coalition is urging the public to ask Congress to pass a new, comprehensive, five-year farm bill before sessions end this month.
The farm bill is not limited to farms and rural areas, the coalition maintains: “It’s really a jobs bill. A food bill. A conservation bill. A research bill. An energy bill. A trade bill. In other words, it’s a bill that affects every American.
“The farm bill affects our nation’s ability to provide the necessities of life for a global population projected to pass 9 billion by 2050. Here at home, it affects an industry that provides 23 million – or one in every 12 – American jobs,” according to a coalition press release.
“The farm bill has broad impact on our citizens and our economy. It provides healthy foods to millions of schoolchildren and nutritious options to families in need. It develops and expands trade with valuable foreign markets. By reducing spending significantly compared to prior farm bills, the proposals pending right now in Congress address the need to get our nation’s fiscal house in order.”
It also benefits American farms, many challenged by drought, Farm Bill Now officials say.
“We are united in asking all Americans to encourage legislators – home for summer town-hall meetings and speeches – to finish this vital legislation before the current farm and food law expires in September. After all, it’s your bill too.”
An interactive web portal at FarmBillNow.com helps connect those interested in contacting Congressional members and showing support for a new farm bill.
For additional encouragement to act now, read the Farm Press Blog by Forrest Laws, entitled “What Happens If Congress Fails To Act On House Farm Bill?”