Farm Bill (Finally) Advances, Some Reforms Left Behind

Payment Limits Provision Passed Both Chambers, But Tossed by Committee

by John Michaelson/TNS

AUSTIN, Texas – After more than two years of debate, it appears a new Farm Bill is headed for passage – although there are misgivings on a number of fronts.

The legislation that emerged from the Conference Committee does not include proposed reforms on payment limits. They were in both the House and Senate versions, but were tossed out during negotiations, much to the ire of amendment author Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa.

“So how does it happen? It happens just because of, I suppose, the lack of understanding of most people … that 10 percent of the biggest farmers get 80 percent of the benefits out of the program,” Grassley said. “Now, they’re going to tell you they keep payment limits in, but the limits are higher than they were under present law.”

The legislation proposes billions in cuts elsewhere, including some conservation programs and $8 billion in food stamps over 10 years. Critics say, however, that without the reforms that cap farm payments, the nation’s largest farms still will have access to virtually unlimited farm subsidies.

In the Midwest, Grassley said, it’ll be “about status quo” going forward under the new legislation, which he also believes is tipped heavily in favor of southern agriculture.

“Cotton, peanuts and rice. With the base acres the way they are figured and with the higher target prices, I think you’re going to return to the days when people are planting according to the farm program instead of the marketplace,” Grassley said. “For the last 15 or so years we’ve been moving away from that, and I hate to move back.”

The U.S. House is expected to vote on the Farm Bill today, with the Senate to follow. Details of the bill are online at agriculture.house.gov.