Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered remarks today on the Senate floor concerning the Farm Bill.

“It’s no secret that American farmers face a lot of uncertainty: unstable markets, volatile weather, and a projected record drop in farm income. All these things make a job that is inherently difficult even more precarious,” McConnell stated.

McConnell cited feedback from Kentucky farmers, emphasizing the risks and tight margins they experience. “Certainty and stability oil the engine of American agriculture, which is why farm families in Kentucky and the rest of rural America look to the Farm Bill to provide support and safeguard our food supply.”

He expressed concern over the impending September expiration of the Farm Bill, noting that Senate Democrats have yet to introduce new legislation or schedule discussions. “The Agriculture Committee’s majority has yet to introduce a bill, set a markup, or secure a single minute of floor time with the Democratic Leader,” he said.

McConnell highlighted the bipartisan tradition within the Agriculture Committee and urged colleagues to begin working on advancing serious legislation. He pointed out that Ranking Member Boozman had recently introduced a Republican Farm Bill Framework as a starting point for discussions.

“The Ranking Member’s plan reflects the actual reality of owning and operating a farm today. And it addresses the biggest bone of contention among American producers: Less fluff, and more farm in the Farm Bill,” McConnell remarked.

He outlined key aspects of Boozman's proposal including bolstering farmer safety nets, expanding competitiveness in global markets, and providing resources for new producers.

“I’ve served on the Agriculture Committee my entire time in the Senate – I know drafting this legislation is certainly not easy," McConnell added. "And I’m grateful to the Ranking Member for his work on this important issue. I hope that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will look to this framework for guidance as we work to deliver certainty and stability to America’s farmers.”