October 22, 2007

ISSUE 1189

SENATE AG COMMITTEE FARM BILL MOVING FORWARD

Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) announced Oct. 17 that key committee members have agreed on a framework for the Senate version of the Farm Bill, enabling the committee to debate the legislation as early as this week.
The bill will expand to $1 billion a fresh fruits and vegetable program for schools and increase conservation spending.

The legislation also will include an optional crop subsidy program, in which farmers can choose smaller direct payments in return for more protection against poor yields and falling prices.

The "revenue assurance" plan would guarantee farmers a base level of revenue regardless of prices or yields. Unlike price supports that give aid only when prices drop, this program would also make payments in case of drought or other crop-destroying events, even if prices are high.

The provision also would allow participating program crop farmers to plant fruits and vegetables on their land. The Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance has learned, however, that some senators have persuaded Sen. Harkin’s staff and others to “come back to the table and discuss options related to the flexible planting provisions.”

The Alliance also has made progress in securing funds to battle pests and diseases.