FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 20, 2018
Contact: Hannah Packman, 202-554-1600
hpackman@nfudc.org
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump today signed the 2018 Farm Bill into law, authorizing and funding America’s farm and food programs through fiscal year 2023.
National Farmers Union (NFU), on behalf of its nearly 200,000 farm family members, supported passage of the bill, as it provides some certainty to family farmers struggling with low farm prices. It also funds and improves programs that encourage conservation and the development of diverse markets for family farmers. Additional details about wins in the 2018 Farm Bill can be found in NFU’s informational two-pager and infographic.
NFU President Roger Johnson issued the following statement in response to the signing of the bill:
“Farmers Union members are relieved to have the support of the farm bill heading into an uncertain future for American agriculture. Agriculture committee leaders delivered on much needed improvements to the previous farm bill and continued support for programs that aid family farm sustainability and emerging markets.
“Moving forward, we must build on the platform the farm bill has provided for the family farm safety net. We’re entering a sixth year of devastatingly low farm prices, leading to substantial financial stress for farm families and forcing many out of business. This pain is exacerbated by the administration’s mishandling of international trade and biofuel policies, which are further depressing farm prices. As we head into 2019, Farmers Union will continue to push for a stronger farm safety net that reflects the realities of the current farm economy and its implications for the viability of family farm agriculture in the United States.
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About NFU
National Farmers Union advocates on behalf of nearly 200,000 American farm families and their communities. We envision a world in which farm families and their communities are respected, valued, and enjoy economic prosperity and social justice.
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