U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar Statement on Bush's Farm Bill Proposal

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar Statement on Bush's Farm Bill Proposal

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today commented on the Bush Administration's proposal on the farm bill. Klobuchar's priorities for the farm bill include: a farm safety net that offers security to farmers, permanent disaster relief that will aid farmers with factors beyond their control, a continuation of dairy and sugar programs and a strong energy title.

"I am deeply concerned about the president's proposal to make drastic changes to the farm safety net. Minnesota's farmers are satisfied with the program they have and want to see it extended," said Klobuchar. "The president's proposal also fails to include a permanent disaster assistance program and that is unacceptable."

"While I am pleased that the proposal includes a continuation of the sugar program, I am concerned that it makes room for foreign imports by reducing domestic sugar production; I will work with my colleagues on the agriculture committees to address this issue."

The president's plan also includes an extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program which Senator Klobuchar said was a positive step. However, Klobuchar expressed concern with a reduction in payment rate over the five year life of the bill and will ask that the rate not be reduced.

http://klobuchar.senate.gov/record.cfm?id=268371&&