YOUR TEXAS AGRICULTURE MINUTE

Why does a farm bill matter?

By Gary Joiner
Publisher

The farm bill is a package of legislation passed by Congress roughly once every five years. Discussions of the next farm bill are already underway.

This is more accurately a food and farm bill. Funding in the legislation provides a comprehensive package of programs for farmers, as well as access to safe and nutritious food for families in need.

Nutrition programs are 78% of all mandatory spending in the farm bill today. This unified approach is the right approach.

The farm bill is a critical tool to ensure our nation’s food supply remains secure in all seasons. We must modernize it to meet the challenges facing farmers and ranchers today.

The farm bill is key to sustainability advances in U.S. agriculture. Those are achieved through an array of conservation programs and investment in research, which is urgently needed as we work to feed a growing population using fewer resources.

The previous two farm bills included significant farm program reforms to ensure government support is market oriented and serves as a safety net. The fact that the 2018 farm bill has paid out less than projected is evidence of the responsible approach taken.

The farm bill has a long tradition of bipartisan support. It’s important for lawmakers to work together to ensure America’s farmers and ranchers can continue to provide the safest, most affordable food supply in the world.

The food and farm bill matters for all Americans.

The preceding commentary is brought to you by Texas Farm Bureau, the “Voice of Texas Agriculture.” Called “Your Texas Agriculture Minute,” TFB will issue thought-provoking editorials each week—via print and audio—to spark understanding of agriculture in the Lone Star State and its impact on each and every Texan.

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