Fighting For The Farm Bill

With the expiration date of September 30 for the current farm bill fast approaching, the pressure on congress to hash out a new one is mounting.

One effort, a rally in Washington D.C. composed of hundreds of industry allies, was organized by United Fresh’s Farm Bill Now Coalition. The event featured remarks from Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., chairwoman of the Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee; Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan. Rep. Collin Peterson, D-Minn., ranking member of the Committee on Agriculture; and Rep. Kristi Noem, R-S.D.

Robert Guenther, United’s senior vice president of public policy emphasized their concern, saying, “The fresh produce industry could lose funding for several critical programs, including pest management, marketing, trade, nutrition, and research programs, if a bill is not passed soon. We urge Congress to move forward with the legislation that the Senate and the House Agriculture Committee have crafted.”

“The Farm Bill Now rally is an important opportunity to unite the agriculture community and send a message that action is necessary,” continued Guenther. “United Fresh members understand the importance of a Farm Bill and the resources it provides to strengthen the competitiveness of our industry. Now is the time for members to call their senators and representatives and let them know that this bill is a priority.”

Other advocates showing their support for a bipartisan solution include Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield), a lifelong rancher who runs a pear orchard. Advocating for a farm bill by signing a discharge petition on the floor of the House of Representatives, he said, “For months, I have lent my voice to a massive and growing chorus of farmers that have pleaded with House Leadership to bring this vital legislation to the floor, so we can have an honest debate. The time for obstruction is over. The time for action is now.”

House Leadership has thus far refused to bring their version of the bill up for a vote. If the discharge petition receives the signature of a majority of Representatives (218), the legislation will automatically be brought to the floor for a vote.

For more information on the efforts being made by the Farm Bill Coalition, click here.