News

New year on the Hill

The new year begins with the U.S. House still on recess but with the Senate to consider a House-passed disaster bill that contains new assistance for dairy and cotton producers. An alternative bill is being developed in the Senate. Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow says lifting the cap on the Livestock Gross Margin insurance program – part of the House bill – would not do enough to help dairy farmers.

Two new Democrat senators are to be sworn on Wednesday: Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith to replace Senator Al Franken and Doug Jones of Alabama to replace the republican appointed to the seat vacated by Attorney General Jeff Sessions.