Secretary Vilsack Urges Farm Bill Passage

All of agriculture is watching this week as the Senate and House conferees begin negotiations on the reauthorization of the Farm Bill. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says it is paramount that the Farm Bill is passed by the end of the year.

Vilsack: "At the end of the day what is really necessary for producers around the country is the certainty of having a farm program. What is necessary for the country is the deficit reduction and reforms this bill will provide to allow us to get our fiscal house in order. What is necessary for rural America is job growth and business growth - this bill basically addresses that. What is important to America is energy security--this bill address it. What is important to America is to continue be on the leading edge of innovation -- this bill continues to support it through our research initiatives. We want to continue to have a growing trade surplus in agriculture we need those trade promotion programs. And we need to be able to provide help and assistance to those who are being affected and impacted by natural disasters. We want to be able to help our producers when they need help the most. Right now it is a little frustrating here at USDA that we can't help the livestock producers who are being hurt, we can't help folks who are being damaged significantly by drought because we don't have the tools. We need a farm bill and we need it now."

Vilsack adds says the varying opinions must be worked through.

Vilsack: "We know there are differences of opinion on issues from dairy to conservation compliance to nutrition assist program but all of those differences can be worked out if people are reasonable."