A new Farm Bill is headed to President Trump’s desk after the U-S House passed a compromise package Wednesday afternoon. Minnesota 7th District Congressman Collin Peterson played a key role in crafting the legislation and told colleagues, “During a time when rural America is facing a downturn in the farm economy and a trade war that’s taking a toll on crop, livestock and dairy producers from coast to coast, this bill will provide needed certainty to farmers and ranchers.”
Peterson says one of the most important parts of the legislation is what it does for dairy farmers. “The economic downturn in farm country has hit [the] dairy industry probably hardest of all,” he says. “In my home state of Minnesota and neighboring Wisconsin, an average of two dairies are going out of business every day.” Peterson says the bill will provide expanded, affordable coverage options and more flexibility for dairy farmers. He adds, “I am proud to put my name on this program.”
When Democrats take control of the U-S House next month, Peterson will again be chairman of the Agriculture Committee.
Peterson’s speech Wednesday afternoon on the House floor: