Rep. Miller: Farm Bill Passage Means Positive Farm Future in Michigan

Statement

Congresswoman Candice Miller (MI-10) today voted in favor of HR 2419, the Food and Energy Security Act conference report, otherwise known as the Farm Bill. The legislation provides for increased loan rates for sugar farmers and includes the planting prohibition, a measure favored by Michigan specialty crop farmers. Miller released the following statement:

"Michigan's farmers and producers should be overwhelmingly happy with the new Farm Bill," Miller said. "This legislation is supported by the Michigan Farm Bureau and every Michigan agricultural industry that I have spoken with as this legislation has moved through Congress. I am very pleased that the House and Senate have worked together to come up with good public policy for our farmers."

Miller continued, "The sugar loan increase will be the first increase since 1985. Any excess sugar in the market will go toward ethanol production, an alternative fuel receiving much support in Congress. Loans and grant to research and develop other alternative fuels are also included in the bill. Additionally, our bean producers will find much to like as well as The Farm Bill will keep excessively wealthy farmers from receiving government subsidies while providing a strong federal policy for family farmers."

"I believe the overwhelming, veto-proof vote in the House will be a demonstration of the need for the Farm Bill and the support it has in Congress."

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