Debate is underway in the U-S Senate on legislation that could greatly influence Iowa’s number-one industry. From what he’s seen of the farm bill so far, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says it will bring positive changes to the agricultural landscape, including the potential elimination of government subsidies to farmers.
The current farm bill expires at the end of September. The new measure would authorize U-S-D-A programs for the next five years. Some members of Congress say the farm bill represents the most significant reform in agricultural policy in decades and Grassley agrees, it has potential. The end of subsidies has been sought for years as they pay farmers regardless of crop prices. Crop insurance programs would be expanded so farmers could still be compensated in cases of weather disasters like drought or flood. Grassley says he also wants to put a firm cap on the amount farmers can earn from farm programs.

(Radio Iowa)