The 2018 Farm Bill was not passed before the September 30th deadline. However, one farm organization chooses to remain optimistic about its future passage.
The November elections could play a role in the passage of a new Farm Bill.
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) expects Congress to complete a five-year farm bill, despite election outcomes. Andrew Walmsley, AFBF director of congressional relations, says the upcoming elections do not change the need for a five-year farm bill.
“Focus is on (the) election, but I think committee staff and those members that are the principals understand the importance of getting a farm bill done,? Walmsley said. ?They have continued to communicate that extension talk isn?t helpful, is not on the table. It?s their intention to get a farm bill done this year.?
It is possible for post-election politics to dictate future progress, as political leaders may be encouraged to wait for a new Congress. Walmsley says postponing further movement is not a good idea.
?I don?t think it gets any easier next year. Even if a chamber or two flips, it?s not going to be by a wide margin. At least that?s what the posters and pundits are saying,? Walmsley said.
Walmsley cites many reasons for a quick passage of the farm bill.
?When you look at the big picture, there is a lot of pressure to get it done,? Walmsley said. ?We need the certainty of a five-year bill. You look at the challenges agriculture is facing, We?ve talked about commodity prices – where markets are – and the challenges we?ve seen with Mother Nature this year.?
