NCGA Hopeful New Extension Will Produce a Farm Bill (4-24-08)

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is hopeful that the one week farm bill extension approved by Congress today will produce a bill that will include an improved optional Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) program.

NCGA is advocating for a farm bill that addresses the increasing levels of risk farmers are facing today and in the future. Still at issue are the unresolved funding issues of the farm bill and addressing needed reform measures. “Producers need a market-oriented safety net that ensures assistance when it is needed most,”

NCGA President Ron Litterer said. “The ACRE program would contribute to budget savings. Any additional cuts would make the program an ineffective option.” Litterer emphasized the importance of a safety net that provides more reliable protection against crop losses and against increasingly volatile commodity markets.

The previous extension expires this Friday, and House and Senate conferees have indicated they will be able to work out their differences within the one week extension, while President Bush has asked for a one-year extension.