A broad coalition of agriculture groups called Farm Bill Now wants exactly that.
United Fresh Produce Association, the National Potato Council, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Produce Marketing Association and Western Growers are part of the 39-member Farm Bill Now coalition seeking a new farm bill this year. The coalition includes groups representing grains, livestock, dairy and specialty crops.
“The focus is on everybody understanding that we are all better off doing something close to the versions of the farm bill already out there as opposed to nothing,” said John Keeling, executive vice president and chief executive officer of the National Potato Council, Washington, D.C. “In total, everybody realizes to not do a farm bill is a dangerous proposition.”
According to a statement from the group, “Why we need a farm bill,” the legislation directly influences one in 12 jobs.
“While Congress waits to finish the farm bill, 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,” according to the statement.
Farm Bill Now will have events in Iowa Aug. 28 and on Capitol Hill Sept. 12 to emphasize its message. Information about the coalition can be found online.
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