Senator Ernst talks to IA producers about Farm Bill

by | Aug 25, 2017 | 5 Ag Stories, News

As the Agriculture Committee works tirelessly on the 2018 Farm Bill, an Iowa visits farmers and producers to gather feedback.

Senator Joni Ernst visited Two Rivers Cooperative yesterday, while on her 99 County Tour. Senator Ernst said the tour allowed her to visit with board members and producers about the upcoming 2018 Farm Bill.

?I sit on the Agriculture Committee, and this is an important project,? Ernst said. “(I?m) making sure we hear directly from those who know what?s included in the Farm Bill, and how it applies to them and their businesses,? Ernst said.

It is still unknown whether America will see a Farm Bill this year. However, Senator Ernst said she remains optimistic about the possibility.

?I think this is something we have to get done. As we look ahead at the next several months, the intent is to work very diligently on this package (and) have it to the floor of the Senate by Christmas. That is what we would like to see. Leader McConnell has stated ?the sooner, the better.? So, I hope to see it soon,? Ernst said.

Other items discussed at the Two Rivers Cooperative meeting were overreaching rules and regulations. As the group discussed overreaching rules and regulations, Senator Ernst was informed of a safety gate regulation require for installation at facilities like Two Rivers Cooperative.

?The cost to a small co-op like Two Rivers is $25,000. That is a lot of dollars that are then passed on to members of that coop. We must figure out what that cost is associated or attributed to and (if) it is worth the additional expense. We must evaluate that. Sometimes the government goes way too far and the benefit doesn?t necessarily equal the cost,? Ernst said.

Senator Ernst marked off Jasper County as her 85th visited county yesterday. The Senator has fourteen counties left to visit.