Read the original article by Tom Johnston at meatingplace.com here.
The U.S. House of Representatives failed today to pass a new Farm Bill, raising doubt about its ability to do so this year.
The 198-213 vote came with staunch Democratic opposition, particularly over provisions related to food stamp changes, and division on the Republican side over the issue of immigration, according to media reports.
Meat industry interests expressed disappointment over the bill’s failure.
“Today’s vote on the 2018 House Farm Bill is a disappointing outcome for American cattlemen and women,” said Allison Cooke, executive director of government affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Assocation. “It is unfortunate that some in Congress chose not to stand with the farmers and ranchers who work hard every day to feed families in the United States and around the world. The bill addresses a number of priorities for producers, including an expanded Foot and Mouth Disease vaccine bank, funding for environmental stewardship initiatives, and trade promotion programs. It is critical that Congress pass a new Farm Bill before September 30th to provide certainty for cattle and beef producers. We will continue to work with our allies in Congress to make that happen.”
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue also expressed his disappointment, issuing a statement saying, “A Farm Bill is necessary to provide our farmers, ranchers, foresters, and producers with the stability and predictability they need. Our farmers feed the people of this nation and the world, and they deserve the certainty of a Farm Bill.”
The current farm bill expires Sept. 30.
