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Challenging ag economy could make for an easier farm bill debate

The Chairman of the House Ag Committee says today’s ag economy is much more conducive to putting together a farm bill.

Congressman Mike Conaway of Texas made his remarks during a House Ag Committee hearing on the rural economy on Wednesday.

He says it was a challenge to make the argument that farmers needed a safety net during the 2014 Farm Bill Debate when the ag economy was booming.  “That will not be the case over the next two years,” he says.  “So my colleagues and I will have a little less difficulty explaining to our colleagues why it’s needed.”

He says consumers are underrepresented in the farm bill – and it is important they understand why a strong safety net is important to both farmers and consumers.  “Engaging the consumer so they understand the deal,” he says.  “That they get a deal every time they go to the grocery store or every time they eat in a restaurant they pay less for their food than anybody else in the world.  That’s a result of hard working farmers and ranchers around this country – and yes – reliance on this safety net.”

Conaway said he’s confident the 2018 Farm Bill will be finalized by the end of the year.