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Senate farm bill discussion continues

Discussion of the Senate farm bill continues today on the Senate floor.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says he’s pleased the ag committee included his provision to allow legal farming of industrial hemp.

“Industrial hemp is a completely different plant than its illicit cousin,” McConnell says. “It’s time we get Washington out of the way and let American farmers meet the growing demand of American consumers. Enough is enough.”

One of the amendments that will be considered is Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley’s proposal to tighten eligibility rules for commodity program payments.

“I can’t defend farm subsidies that go to Wall Street or people who live in beach houses,” Grassley told reporters. “That is why I have advocated for these reforms for so many years. Farm programs should help people who actually farm—period.”

Ag Committee chair Pat Roberts presented a list of 18 amendments to be considered. McConnell said he wants a farm bill vote before the end of the week.