8-13 IAN 2012 Farm Bill

2012 may seem like a long way off, but believe it or not, people involved in agriculture are already turning their focus to the next farm bill, due in 2012.  American Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman talked about the legislation’s importance in testimony before the Senate Agriculture Committee. Here’s Bob Stallman (AFBF President): Most farmers in most states rely in some way on the safety net provided in the 2008 farm bill. 

Despite its importance, the bill will face a lot of tough debate. 

(Stallman ) “We know we will face many challenges in writing the 2012 farm bill, including the budget environment and the need to balance the interests of a multitude of players.”

It’s easy for issues like size, region and commodity to cause division, especially in the current economic environment.  That’s why Stallman says his organization has outlined five general principles for a Farm Bill proposal.

(Stallman ) “1) The options we support will be fiscally responsible. 2) The basic funding structure of the 2008 farm bill will not be altered.  In other words, money will not be shifted from one title of the farm bill to another.  3) The proposals we support will aim to benefit all the agricultural sectors.  4) World trade rulings will be considered.  And 5) consideration will be given to the stable business environment that is critical to success in agriculture.”