Michigan Benefits from Farm Bill

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, MI-08, issued the following statement after voting today to support the 2008 Farm Bill:

"Michigan's diverse agricultural base benefits from this measure which provides farmers with the resources to continue meeting the needs of the people of our state and nation," Rogers said. "This crucial legislation, which aims to stabilize rising food prices, increases resources for domestic renewable energy, provides assistance to specialty crop growers, and reforms farm programs to improve effectiveness and reduce waste. Michigan's agriculture industry, as well as the entire state, stands to benefit from these advancements."

Today's bi-partisan vote approved a conference report on H.R. 2419 which also awaits final Senate approval. The measure will benefit Michigan by:

- Providing $1 billion to fund programs that will help the renewable energy industry invest in new technologies, including $118 million into continued research of cellulosic ethanol at places like Michigan State University;

- Reforming farm subsidy programs to disqualify millionaire hobby farmers from receiving government benefits;

- Assisting Michigan's specialty crop growers, whose crops make Michigan the second leading state in the nation for specialty crops; and,

- Increasing funding for nutrition programs by $10.3 billion to ensure that children and seniors have the food they need.

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