020236 USDA Secretary Veneman Critiques Farm BillFebruary 14, 2002Washington - The following statement by USDA statement by Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman regarding passage of a Farm Bill by the U.S. Senate Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman: “The Bush Administration is committed to sound farm policy that supports farmers and ranchers throughout the country. While Senators reached consensus on some titles of the farm bill, there are many areas where the bill misses the mark. Of particular concern is the Senate bill front-loads spending in the first five years, leaving farm programs shortchanged in the long-term. This will simply hurt farmers down the road. The House-passed bill spreads the funding much more evenly over a 10-year period. “The President has outlined what he would like to see in a new farm bill. It is important to produce a conference bill that provides farmers a responsible safety net, promotes expanded trade, encourages improved conservation, establishes farm savings accounts and adheres to the budget agreement. We particularly appreciated the efforts by Senators Cochran and Roberts in introducing an amendment that met these principles. “The Conference Committee faces a formidable and important challenge in reconciling the key features of the proposed legislation. Their work will significantly affect the viability of the farm sector for many years to come. We look forward to working with Chairman Combest and Congressman Stenholm, as well as Chairman Harkin and Senator Lugar and other conferees to quickly achieve the Administration's goals. “We will continue to work closely with members of Congress and the farm, commodity, conservation and nutrition communities for completion of a farm bill that the President can sign. USDA stands ready to ensure its timely and efficient implementation.”
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