FFVA MEETS WITH LAWMAKERS ON DISASTER FUNDING AND FARM BILL

House and Senate negotiators were busy last week trying to finish work on an emergency supplemental appropriations package for war and hurricane relief. FFVA has asked that specific language to facilitate disaster assistance for fruit and vegetable producers be included in the final bill. However, President Bush has set a limit of $92.2 billion for the funding measure – a ceiling that likely requires cuts in the initial agriculture disaster relief funding level. Work on the bill will continue through the Memorial Day recess and the Conference Committee may conclude soon after Congress returns on June 5.

Additionally, FFVA representatives met with members of Florida’s congressional delegation last week to share objectives for the 2007 farm bill. FFVA has provided leadership on an industry-wide coalition that has crafted policy recommendations on research, market assistance, disaster assistance, pest and disease programs, nutrition and more. Lawmakers and their staff reacted favorably to the proposals, which will be available in draft bill form later this summer. For more information, contact Mike Stuart or Ray Gilmer at FFVA.