Hundreds of groups call for new farm bill

WASHINGTON — Programs that benefit every family in America are too important to put off any longer.

That’s the message from more than 500 other groups representing agriculture, nutrition, conservation, the environment, rural development and several other sectors that united to send a letter to congressional leaders calling for the passage of a new, modernized farm bill.

“When more than 500 groups — many of which typically have competing agendas — come together and speak with one voice, it clearly demonstrates the urgency and importance of passing a new farm bill,” said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall.

“We’ve experienced a pandemic, record-high inflation, global unrest and supply chain issues since the current farm bill passed.

“It’s time lawmakers work in a bipartisan manner and agree on a new farm bill that addresses challenges and looks to the future to ensure America’s families continue to have access to the safest, most affordable food, fiber and fuel in the world.”

The letter was sent to leaders in both chambers and leaders of the House and Senate agriculture committees:

“Millions of Americans rely daily on the provisions of the farm bill to produce food, fiber and fuel; to feed their families and others around the world; to voluntarily conserve fish and wildlife and their habitat; to provide sustainable solutions for clean air and water; to provide a producer safety net; to facilitate international trade; to create local jobs and robust economies; and to support rural development nationwide.

“If Congress does not come together this year to enact a bipartisan farm bill, the legislative process will begin anew in the 119th Congress.

“Given the significant legislative, and possibly administrative, duties of a new Congress including the seating of new leadership and committees, Senate nominations, and other essential actions during the first months of the 119th Congress, we have concerns that it may not be logistically or politically feasible to advance a new farm bill early in the next Congress.

“As committed stakeholders and beneficiaries of the farm bill, we cannot continue to wait for updated policies, provisions, initiatives and critical funding that support our collective interests.

“Therefore, we respectfully and strongly urge you to craft a bipartisan farm bill that can pass your respective chambers and be conferenced and enacted in this Congress.

“We have full confidence that under your leadership and with a bipartisan commitment to the American people, you will enact a 2024 farm bill that continues the exemplary track record of innovative and modernized farm and food policy to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

“We look forward to working with you to bring a bipartisan 2024 farm bill to fruition.”