NCGA Urges Thune to Prioritize Budget Reconciliation Legislation, Farm Bill

The leader of National Corn Growers Association sent a letter today to Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) urging him to prioritize consideration and passage of the budget reconciliation legislation that would provide additional and much needed short-term assistance for agriculture.

"Swift consideration and passage of the budget resolution by the Senate Budget Committee will ensure this critical assistance provides relief for America's farmers as soon as possible," Ohio farmer and NCGA President Jed Bower wrote. "This year is expected to be the fourth consecutive year of net income losses for corn growers with an expected loss of nearly $150 per acre."

Bower noted that the United States Department of Agriculture has proven that the administration can deliver authorized assistance timely and accurately. "Corn growers applauded President Trump for the administration's budget supplemental request which includes economic and disaster assistance for farmers and calls for permanent year-round sales of E15," the letter said. "NCGA supported the successful passage of the budget resolution by the full U.S. House of Representatives."

Additionally, the letter encouraged the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee to advance a bipartisan farm bill as soon as possible, saying the legislation includes important updates to USDA conservation, trade, credit, rural development, research and energy programs.

The letter also encouraged the Senate to act immediately to pass pending legislation that would provide consumers permanent, nationwide, year-round access to fuel with 15% ethanol blends, saying it would help corn growers and the rural economy during a difficult time and will also address issues around affordability by lowering prices at the pump.

The letter comes as the August recess approaches and members of Congress will be flying home to meet with constituents.

Read the Letter