Farm Bill Falls Short According to Corn Growers
Several state groups say revenue-based safety net needed.
Compiled by staff
Published: Feb 8, 2008
Six state commodity groups have issued a joint-statement saying that a farm bill without an optional revenue-based safety net is not a viable solution.
"The business dynamic of agriculture today is completely different than even a few years ago, so ag policy legislation should lead the way to make this a positive transition, says Illinois Corn Growers Association President Art Bunting. "Much of the farm bill as drafted puts window dressing on an outdated approach that serves neither corn growers nor the public well."
The corn organizations from Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Maryland and Virginia say that the key elements of a revenue-based system include being based on market prices, being exclusive of other programs, and being designed to activate on need. There should also be the ability to negotiate direct payments and state and county triggers should be used rather than a national trigger.
"The goal should be to assure a safety net for farmers and consumers who rely on the growing array of food, feed, fuel and fiber products made from corn," says Iowa Corn Growers President Tim Recker. "A Farm Bill without a revenue-based program is extremely inadequate and could present significant economic consequences to corn producers throughout the Corn Belt."
The groups state that the country needs a program that provides assistance when it's needed most, not one that is in place because it's always been done that way.
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Tagged: farm, farm bill, Corn Belt
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