Ag Chairman: Ryan provisions on farm bill ‘simply suggestions’

“At the end of the day, members of the House Agriculture Committee and I will write the next farm bill,” he said.

The National Cotton Council (NCC) aired their concerns about Ryan’s proposal, saying it was “deeply concerned” by the depth of its cuts to commodity, conservation and nutrition programs.

“Agriculture should not be asked to beara disproportionate share in the federal deficit cutting process,” said NCC Chairman Charles Parker. “It is imperative that Congress maintain a strong safety net for times when farm prices and revenue decline.”

Lucas also took the opportunity to jab the Obama administration on its budget proposal, accusing the president of being “not ready to participate, much less lead, in dealing with this serious issue.”

Ryan’s fiscal 2012 budget would cut spending by $5.8 trillion over 10 years.

This post updated at 2:48 pm.