“This bill is the product of years of hearings and testimony in the Ag Committee, intense debate in Congress and countless discussions with 15th District agriculturalists,” stated Johnson.  “Though imperfect, the new Farm Bill allows for a strong safety net for our producers, it increases conservation funding by 80%, and it strengthens emphasis on governmental, export marketing programs.  I believe those components combine to build strong foundation for economic recovery in rural America.”

The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 is based on language passed in the House Agriculture Committee nearly one year ago.  The House-Senate Conference Committee delivered the final version just this week.  The House passed the bill early this afternoon by a vote of 280 to 141.  Rep. Johnson said he anticipates immediate Senate approval and he said President Bush has vowed to sign it in to law.

“It is a shame that this process took as long as it did,” noted Johnson.  “We worked tirelessly as an Ag Committee and with our rural constituents last summer to put legislation in place for this farming season.  Hopefully, we are not too late and the farmers who have begun planting can base this year’s business decisions on this brand new Farm Bill.”