02.04.14

Durbin: It's About Time Congress Passes a Bipartisan Farm Bill

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Illinois farmers will finally have the certainty they need to make plans for the future, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) said today prior to a Senate vote on the Farm Bill conference report. The legislation will save roughly $23 billion over the next 10 years compared to pre-sequestration budget levels, and reforms several titles to help producers better manage risk, makes key investments in energy and research, ensures programs are in place to help rural communities grow and thrive, and helps those most in need put food on the table.

 

“We've been waiting for over two years to pass the Farm Bill and finally we have a bipartisan bill. It's about time. Farmers and everybody involved in agribusiness need some certainty about their future,” Durbin said. “This is a good bill. It eliminates some of the programs that were wasteful and maintains the safety net – the crop insurance program – that is so important for producers across our state. In so many different areas, whether it's agriculture research or making certain that we have the best quality, wholesome food in the world, this Farm Bill is going to move us forward. Illinois' economy starts with our farm economy, and this Farm Bill will give them the certainty they need to be successful another farm year.”