Farm Bill Cleared for Passage Next Week
The Senate voted 75-22 on the greatly debated farm bill today, ending a five-year negotiation and sending the bill to along for final votes by the Senate, according to The Hill. The bill would cut $24 billion from farm spending over 10 years, including a $4 billion reduction to food stamps. Final votes are expected to occur on Monday.
Aides said farm bill amendment votes could still come later Thursday if a final agreement can be struck to vote on a limited number of changes. They were hopeful that having the clock running toward final passage would pressure members to drop many of their amendment requests.
Debbie Stabenow expressed that her bill will support 16 million U.S. jobs. "I don’t think there will be a single bill on this floor that affects more jobs than this one," Stabenow said. "This is an opportunity to cut spending by more than $24 billion."
The bill was advanced with the aid of more than 20 Republicans. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he hopes that House leaders will allow a floor vote on the Senate farm bill this year.
“Congress must pass a strong farm bill and do it quickly,” Reid said ahead of the vote. “I am optimistic and hopeful that we will advance this bill.”
Thad Cochran, a Kansas Republican stated, “We need to pass this bill. It provides a framework for farmers and ranchers to better manage their risks. This bill reflects a real sense of fiscal responsibility yet still provides a safety net.”
