Senate Returns for Farm Bill Vote
From the Western Ag Network, I’m Bob Larson. The fate of the farm bill ahead of the midterm elections rests with the expected return next week of Senator Mitch McConnell, out for months after a fall and mild pneumonia.
McConnell hasn’t publicly announced when he’ll be back for a revote of the farm bill that failed in his absence to advance in committee, but several GOP lawmakers say his staff’s goal is for McConnell’s return when the Senate reconvenes Monday.
Fellow Kentucky Republican and House Oversight panel Chair
James Comer says that’s also what he’s been hearing …
COMER … “According to his staff…I’ve not talked to Leader McConnell…I’ve talked to his staff, many whom are from my district, originally, and they have all said it’s their goal for Senator McConnell to be here when the Senate comes in next week.”
Ag Chair John Boozman knew in August when he called up the farm bill for a vote it would likely fail, but he signaled to Democrats, it wouldn’t be the last vote …
BOOZMAN … “I spoke with Senator McConnell…I know how much he would have wanted to be here to advocate for Kentucky’s farmers and rural communities. We wish him a full and speedy recovery, and we look forward to welcoming him back to the committee soon.”
McConnell voted by proxy on farm bill amendments but under Senate rules couldn’t do so on the final committee vote.
The Senate farm bill, unlike the House-passed version, would green-light year-round sales of E15 gas.
Also awaiting Senate action, $12 billion in new farm aid as part of a budget reconciliation bill the House also passed.
