Statement by Bob Stallman, President

American Farm Bureau Federation

Senate Passage of Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 14, 2007 - “The American Farm Bureau Federation commends the U.S. Senate for passing its 2007 farm bill legislation. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged with the knowledge they are one step closer to being able to make important spring planting decisions.

“This legislation contains important provisions for all sectors of agriculture, including expanded marketing programs to encourage the consumption of fruits and vegetables, incentives for beginning farmers and ranchers and provisions to promote the production of home-grown renewable fuels. The bill also meets the needs of more of America’s farmers by providing new funding for specialty crop research, conservation and pest and disease programs.

“The farm bill benefits all Americans with important programs for nutrition, conservation, energy security and support for rural communities. In doing so, the bill supports the production of our nation’s food and fiber staples and it preserves a way of life that benefits all of American society.

“We look forward to working with both the House and Senate as they move to conference on this critical legislation.”

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Contacts:                   Tracy Taylor Grondine                              Mace Thornton

                                 (202) 406-3642                                          (202) 406-3641

                                  tracyg@fb.org                                           macet@fb.org