The agreement protects and strengthens the federal crop insurance program and recognizes its importance as a risk management tool. The commodity title programs are critical to Midwest crop farmers who need a safety-net option, yet firmly believe in following market signals for planting decisions. Ohio livestock producers will also benefit from this farm bill through the inclusion of the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Livestock Forage Program, EQIP and export programs. In addition, the nutrition title meets the important goals of providing food security and stability to those in need. There are numerous research provisions, conservation programs, rural development and energy programs that will provide benefit to not only farmers, but to all consumers and Ohio’s economy.
“The farm bill demonstrates fiscal responsibility, provides a needed safety net for farmers, protects important nutrition and food access programs and provides resources to help farmers protect the environment.” ~ Jack Fisher, executive vice president, Ohio Farm Bureau
“Passing a five-year farm bill creates the stability needed for Ohio’s agricultural producers. For three years, I have fought for passage of comprehensive farm reforms. With this bill we have achieved reforms that strengthen critical commodity, conservation, and crop insurance programs while saving taxpayers billions of dollars.” ~ Sen. Sherrod Brown
“This bill will save taxpayers $23 billion and includes sensible reforms to both farm and food stamp programs. The farm bill ensures food security for those in need and provides a safety net for our nation’s producers. Now, farmers will have more choices to cover their risks under this conference report. The passage of the Farm Bill will provide certainty to America’s farmers, ranchers and consumers.” ~ Rep. Bob Gibbs
Here’s how individual members of Congress voted on this important measure:
House
Beatty: Yes
Boehner: Did not vote as speaker
Chabot: No
Fudge: Yes, including a floor speech in favor
Gibbs: Yes
Johnson: Yes
Jordan: No
Joyce: Yes
Kaptur: Yes
Latta: Yes
Renacci: Yes
Ryan: No
Stivers: Yes
Tiberi: Yes
Turner: Yes
Wenstrup: No
Senate
Brown: Yes
Portman: Yes
Read a broad overview about the programs that impact farmers in the bill