Farm Bill Becomes Law: Smith Votes to Override President's Veto

Press Release

Farm Bill Becomes Law: Smith Votes to Override President's Veto

The first major bill in six years aimed specifically at meeting the needs of Americans who make their living off the land became public law today. The Senate joined the House in overriding President Bush's veto of the bill, thereby making it law without his signature. This bill, supported by agriculture and nutrition groups across Oregon and the nation, will support farmers and ranchers, encourage innovation in agriculture, and boost food assistance funding for Americans in need.

"This Farm Bill's focus on fruits, vegetables and other crops found in Oregon's bounty makes it the best ever for our state," Smith said. "Now that the bill is finally law, Oregon's plows will be poised to fill the world's plates."

"Against a backdrop of growing global food security concerns, this carefully crafted legislation will give America's farmers and ranchers a basic package of support that will allow them to continue serving as the world's major food producers," said Barry Bushue, President of Oregon Farm Bureau in a letter of support.

In August of 2006, Senator Smith hosted a field hearing with Senate Agricultural Committee Chairman Saxby Chambliss in Redmond to allow Oregon producers to express their needs and expectations for the Farm Bill. The bill also includes $10 billion in additional funding for nutrition programs and $170 million in emergency funding for communities impacted by the closure of the salmon season.

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