Joco Today

Washington, D.C. – Senate Agriculture Committee Republicans have introduced a framework for the Farm Bill that emphasizes crop insurance, increases reference prices, removes certain climate regulations from the Biden administration, and invests in rural infrastructure. Senator Roger Marshall, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, stated that this framework reflects the priorities of Kansas farmers and ranchers.

“For years now, we have fought to ensure our Kansas agriculture community has a seat at the highest levels of government – especially when it comes to negotiating the Farm Bill,” said Senator Marshall. “We believe this framework reflects Kansas’ priorities and hope that farmers and ranchers across the country continue to throw their support behind putting ‘farm’ back in the Farm Bill.”

Kansas agriculture leaders have expressed support for this framework. Shane Ohlde, President of the Kansas Sorghum Producers, emphasized its importance: “We appreciate Senator Marshall’s work on the strong Title I proposals in this framework that would create a future-focused farm safety net to help Kansas producers confidently confront events outside their control.”

Tim Stroda, President and CEO of the Kansas Pork Association, highlighted relief from multi-state regulations and increased funding for foreign animal disease prevention as key elements: “Our members thank Senator Marshall and his colleagues for their work to provide relief from burdensome multi-state regulations.”

J. Ernest Minton, Dean of Kansas State University College of Agriculture, noted appreciation for investments in research facilities: “Kansas State University deeply appreciates the inclusion of several top Title VII priorities including reauthorization of programs funding capacity... This investment in the Research Facilities Act (RFA) will help ensure the United States gains ground in funding food and agriculture R & D relative to other global competitors.”

Kyler Millershaski, President of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, praised specific provisions such as increased reference prices: “The Farm Bill is a crucial piece of legislation that provides essential support to farmers... We were excited to see some of our key priorities included.”

Philip Weltmer, President of the Kansas Livestock Association, pointed out benefits for cattle producers: “We appreciate that this Farm Bill framework supported by Senator Marshall includes top priorities for cattle producers such as funding to protect the U.S. cattle herd from foreign animal disease.”

Ron Seeber, President and CEO of both Kansas Grain and Feed Association and Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association reiterated industry-wide support: “The Farm Bill is vital for stability and growth... Our industry really appreciates Senator Marshall and his colleagues’ work focusing on putting farm back in the Farm Bill.”

J.D. Hanna from Kansas Corn Growers Association acknowledged progress made by Congress: “This framework is another step in the right direction as Congress works to ensure that farmers have stability they need.”

Kody Bessent from Plains Cotton Growers Inc. stressed urgency due to market volatility: “The uncertainty of Mother Nature coupled with market volatility has taken a toll on cotton producers... We strongly encourage swift action on their version of 2024 Farm Bill.”

Joe Newland from Kansas Farm Bureau called for bipartisan efforts: "In order for a Farm Bill to become law it must be bipartisan."

A summary document detailing Senate Agriculture Committee Republicans' proposed framework can be accessed online.