| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Beth Day |
| February 28, 2001 | (202)224-6404 |
Washington, D.C. -- America's farmers can continue to count on Congress to provide assistance in several ways during continued economic difficulties, according to Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS), who addressed approximately 86 members of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation and their families at the group's annual visit to Capitol Hill today. "Over the past three years, Congress has provided over $25 billion in emergency assistance for the U.S. agriculture sector which has experienced economic difficulties due to declining export demand, higher production costs, and weather-related problems," said Cochran, who, as Chairman of the Agriculture Appropriations panel, steered the emergency assistance package included in the funding bill to final passage each year. Cochran went on to say that "according to USDA and prominent agriculture economists, the U.S. agricultural economy will continue to face persistent low prices and depressed farm income this year and a strong rebound in farm prices and income from the market appears unlikely." In light of the fact that financial stress for America's farmers will continue, Cochran has written a letter to the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee requesting emergency economic assistance. Cochran said, "I have asked the Chairman for his assistance, because I believe it is vitally important to provide at least as much total economic assistance for 2001 and 2002 as was provided for the 2000 crop year since farm income is not projected to improve." "While farmers and ranchers clearly prefer receiving their incomes from the market, federal assistance will be necessary until conditions improve as farmers strive to reduce costs and expand markets," Cochran said. "This action would address some of the problems in the short term, while allowing the Agriculture Committee the time to develop a comprehensive new farm bill when the current law expires." The Senator did not agree with those who believe that the existing farm policy should be changed in the middle of a crop year. Cochran said, "In addition to financial assistance, we can also combat these financial difficulties by developing policies and programs to ensure a competitive agricultural economy, reduce trade barriers, and open markets worldwide." Cochran agreed with a recent report of the Commission on 21st Century Agriculture that suggested continuing the fixed Agricultural Market Transition Act payment at existing levels with the adoption of an additional income support program to supplement payments to producers. The Senator also suggested retaining the current marketing assistance loan program and giving the President fast-track authority to help producers improve export opportunities. In addition to promoting trade and enhancing competitiveness, Senator Cochran stressed the importance of continued research to ensure successful and safe production of a wholesome food supply and a clean environment. The Senator noted some important changes in conservation policy during the 106th Congress, including the Wetlands Reserve Program, the Conservation Reserve Program and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program which resulted in increased protection of natural resources. "Last year landowners applied wildlife management plans on 12.3 million acres," Cochran said.
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