Lucas Commends Secretary Vilsack for Ensuring Certainty for Ag Producers for Crop Year 2013

Statement

Today, Chairman Frank Lucas released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's announcement that enrollment for farm programs for the 2013 crop year begins next month.

"I want to commend Secretary Vilsack for today's announcement that sign-up for farm programs, including direct payments, will begin on February 19th. It is vitally important that our farmers, and lenders alike, know that Congress and the Administration intend to keep the commitment made with the one-year extension of the 2008 farm bill. Short of a five-year bill, this extension provides certainty for the 2013 crop year.

"Looking ahead, it is equally important that our farmers and ranchers be able to plan for the long term. As we renew efforts to complete a five-year comprehensive farm bill, I pledge to work with the Secretary, my House and Senate colleagues, and all interested parties to advance a fiscally responsible, reform-minded, and balanced farm bill this year. My goal remains, as ever before, to complete our work and ensure our investment in American agriculture."

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