Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Rodd Moesel released the following statement after the U.S. House today passed The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 conference report, also known as the 2018 farm bill.
“Oklahoma family farmers and ranchers today rest a little easier thanks to Congress’ action in passing the 2018 farm bill this week, even as our state’s agricultural producers face the constant threats of a challenging farm economy, ever-changing weather and an unpredictable trade environment.
“All Oklahomans need the assurances that come from this bill, from the family farmers and ranchers producing our nation’s food and fiber to the everyday families working to put food on the table.
“The bill delivers provisions to support Oklahoma agricultural producers including risk management tools, international market development programs, and conservation and environmental stewardship programs. Additionally, the bill brings funding for cutting-edge agricultural research and extension, investments in rural Oklahoma and nutrition programs for low-income children, families and seniors.
“We understand no bill is perfect, but the 2018 farm bill does a great job of addressing the realities facing today’s family farmers and ranchers. We sincerely appreciate the tireless work and effort by House and Senate ag leaders and their committees in delivering a farm bill before the end of the year. After hundreds of committee hearings and thousands of hours of work, we now have a farm bill that will sustain our nation’s food security in the years to come.
“We’re thankful for the support of Oklahoma’s entire congressional delegation including Sens. Jim Inhofe and James Lankford and Reps. Kevin Hern, Markwayne Mullin, Frank Lucas, Tom Cole and Steve Russell. We look forward to President Donald Trump’s quick approval so we can start the new year off doing what we do best: growing and raising the world’s most reliable and most affordable food, fuel and fiber.”