House Farm Bill Passage Is Strong Step for Rice and Consumers; More Work Ahead

WASHINGTON, July 27, 2007 — USA Rice Federation officials today expressed their thanks and support for House passage of the farm bill legislation offered by Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson (D-MN). The House passed the measure in a 231-191 vote, with 19 Republicans voting with the majority.

“This vote is welcome news for USA Rice members, agriculture as a whole and ultimately for American consumers,” said Paul T. Combs, chairman of the USA Rice Producers Group. “It will help ensure that America’s consumers can continue to enjoy one of, if not the most affordable, safest food supplies in the world.

“USA Rice Federation leadership, members and staff have worked hard to support the committee’s farm bill,” USA Rice Federation Chairman Al Montna said today. “We also recognize the hard work and dedication of House legislators and staffs, and thank them for their dedication to and stewardship of America’s food supply.”

The five-year, omnibus bill (H.R. 2419), which maintains the current support levels for rice, authorizes commodity, conservation, trade, nutrition, energy, research, and other programs.

The House bill also establishes a separate $6.50/cwt loan rate applicable to long and medium/short-grain rice, as proposed by USA Rice and sponsored by Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA).

H.R. 2419 maintains marketing loans and countercyclical payments, reduces the adjusted gross income level, and eliminates the three-entity rule and marketing certificates.

“We should all be aware that this isn’t the end of the road,” Combs said. The Senate must pass its version of the farm legislation, the two versions must be reconciled, and the final version signed by the president.” Senate Agriculture Chairman Tom Harkin (D-IA) on Wednesday said mark up of Senate farm bill legislation would likely be made during the third week of September followed by debate on the Senate floor in October.

The House in a 117-309 vote last night soundly defeated the Kind/Flake amendment, which would have gutted the farm programs safety net. Montna and Combs, speaking for the USA Rice Federation, thanked members for their support for production agriculture.

An amendment by Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) to open Cuba trade was defeated, 182-245.

“We look forward to working with Chairman Peterson and committee members as the legislation moves forward,” Combs said.

Contacts:

Reece Langley, (703) 236-1471

David Coia, (703) 236-2300