In a departure from the ongoing bipartisan, bicameral discussions of the four House and Senate agriculture committee leaders, retiring Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow this week released highlights of her version of the farm bill, along with a revised summary of the farm bill framework she released on May 1.
This development, coupled with the short amount of time remaining in the lame duck congressional session to negotiate, has resulted in ag committee leaders in both chambers initiating talks to add a one-year farm bill extension to a must-pass bill before the year ends.
A hearing of the Senate Appropriations Committee was held this week to discuss disaster assistance needs and the Biden administration’s request to Congress for disaster relief resources. During the hearing, several senators raised the critical need for farm economic assistance given the sharp decline in the farm economy. Discussions are underway to develop disaster relief legislation.
Three weeks remain in the lame duck congressional session prior to expiration of government funding on Dec. 20. ASA will continue to engage and monitor developments on these and other issues.
