NCGA, Ag Groups Ask Senators to Reject Amendments to Farm Bill (11-2-05)

The National Corn Growers Association and other agricultural groups on Monday urged the Senate “to reject any amendments which would substantially alter the fundamental policies and delicate balance and allocation of financial resources embodied in the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (FSRIA).”

Sens. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) and Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) introduced an amendment to the Budget Reconciliation bill that would lower payment limitations. Other considerations that may arise during debate may relate to conservation, nutrition and export programs.

NCGA and other agriculture groups in a letter to the senators said, “For example, we understand that during the floor consideration of the budget reconciliation measure, amendments may be offered to make substantial changes in the farm bill’s policies governing the limits on farm program payments. These limits were carefully crafted after significant debate during congressional consideration of FSRIA. The best forum for making decisions about such major changes to such policies is during the consideration of the 2007 farm bill - not in the budget reconciliation process.”

The agriculture groups encouraged the senators to maintain the current policy, as it provides stability for farmers for the balance of the 2002 Farm Bill.

“Our farmers and ranchers need a predictable, stable farm policy in order to continue to make responsible planting and marketing decisions,” the letter said. “That is one of many reasons why we ask you to join us in opposing amendments such as this that would disrupt the careful policy balance struck in the 2002 Farm Bill.”

To read the letter, click here.