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Farm bill unhappinessBy Holly Martin It appears that no one is happy with the 2008 farm bill. National Association of Wheat Growers President David Cleavinger said in a statement, "No one is thrilled with all aspects of this deal, but we understand the delicate balance it took to get it done." And Cleavinger is right. The farm bill of 2007, now 2008, is less than fantastic. But everyone wants it done-except maybe President Bush. The Bush Administration is not happy with the bill and Bush has said several times that he will veto the bill. And it looks as if he will uphold his promise. Farm groups have thrown their support behind the bill, hoping there will be enough votes to override the veto should it get to that point. Bruce Knight, U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, told farm reporters that the bill failed to meet the needs of farmers, ranchers and taxpayers. He called for Congress to go back to school this summer and reform the bill the way it should be. Knight expected the bill to be approved by Congress by the time you read this. While he could not speak for the president, he said President Bush has been very clear about his intentions to veto the bill. "From there, you will see the drama unfold." Can this bill really go on much longer? Will Congress go back to the drawing board? Will they try to find more common ground? All I can say is that I hope the next time the farm bill is written, the congressional leadership is in different hands-hands that have been on the business end of a shovel before and know what will best keep the agriculture industry thriving in the United States. Holly Martin can be reached by phone at 1-800-452-7171 ext. 1806 or e-mail at hmartin@hpj.com. 5/19/08 Date: 5/14/08 Advertisement
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