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Farm Bill Key for Agriculture (Rep. Randy Kuhl)

by N.Y. GOP Rep. Randy Kuhl - 09/15/07 9:00 AM ET

Agriculture is one of the most important industries in New York State, as the farm economy generates over $3.6 billion annually for New York State. It is critical that we do whatever we can to help our farms thrive in our economy.

The 2007 Farm Bill is an opportunity to make American farm policy truly comprehensive, competitive and cohesive. While unfortunate partisan political tactics almost got in the way of passing this landmark legislation, the Farm Bill should be about supplying our New York farmers with the tools they need to remain competitive- a goal I have remained fervently committed to during my tenure in Congress.

This Farm Bill makes substantial commitments to important conservation, research, nutrition, and renewable energy initiatives – and for the first time provides substantial support for the fruit and vegetable industry. Not only does this bill include an extension of the successful MILC safety net program for dairy farmers, this bill provides critical assistance and tools to increase demand for our crops and keep the industry competitive in a changing global market.