June 19, 2008
State Legislators Applaud Congress for Overriding Farm Bill Veto
Legislation vital for nation's farmers, including rural, flood-damaged communities
WASHINGTON -- While states across the Midwest encounter some of the worst flooding in 15 years, Congress has shown its support for farmers and rural communities by re-authorizing the Farm Bill. This legislation provides money for rural development and subsidy payments that help provide a financial cushion for farmers.
"This Farm Bill doesn't just provide farm subsidies. It provides money for nutrition assistance programs and the Food Stamp program, which Americans facing tough economic times need to feed their families," said William T. Pound, executive director of the National Conference of State Legislatures. "We support the continued investment in rural communities and improvements in programs that benefit the nation as a whole."
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture as many as 2 million to 5 million acres of corn have been damaged or destroyed by the recent flooding. Corn prices affect the overall cost of lots of food including livestock as well as corn-based ethanol fuel used to transport it.
Given the enhancements this bill makes in nutrition, rural development and farm programs, NCSL applauds Congress for recognizing this much-needed support. The additional $10 billion for nutrition assistance programs comes at a time when food prices are rising and putting a strain on families with fixed incomes. This bill also raises the minimum monthly benefit for food stamp recipients and boosts funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program that helps food banks.
"The resources in the rural development title of the Farm Bill will help us address immediate and widespread needs across the rural landscape and make our communities better places for future generations," Pound said.
NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.
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