Lawmakers Get to Work on Farm Bill Compromise – Growing Georgia

Congress got to work Wednesday, hammering out the differences in farm support, energy policy, and conservation programs included in House- and Senate-approved versions of the Farm Bill.

“Consensus has proven to be an elusive goal at times in Congress, but it is a word that underscores the work we do in the agriculture community every day,” said House Ag Committee Chairman Frank Lucas, R-Okla. “When we are successful, when we have reached consensus, we will have a final product that provides major savings to the Treasury, significant reforms to policy, and yet still provides a safety net for not only the production of food and fiber, but also to ensure our fellow citizens have enough food to eat.”

As members of the conference committee delivered opening statements, several applauded both houses for eliminating direct payment programs and strengthening crop insurance.

“Our producers are willing to put their own skin in the game to protect themselves,” said Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kansas, praising lawmakers for getting rid of direct payments.

via Lawmakers Get to Work on Farm Bill Compromise – Growing Georgia.