USA Rice Applauds Congress and Urges Swift Enactment of Farm Bill into Law

Washington, DC —FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, May 15, 2008 — Contacts: Reece Langley, (703) 236-1471 or David Coia (703) 236-2300

It is important for the stability of agriculture and U.S. consumers that President Bush sign the 2008 farm bill into law, following the overwhelming bipartisan approval of the conference committee report by Congress in votes today and yesterday, USA Rice Federation leaders said.

Today’s 81-15 Senate vote for the reconciled 2008 farm bill — 14 more votes a than needed to override the president’s veto — and yesterday’s 318 to 106 House vote — 28 more votes than needed for an override, sends a clear message to the Bush administration of the overwhelming support for the legislation, USA Rice Federation leaders said today.

“The farm bill Congress passed incorporates unprecedented reforms to farm programs and yet largely maintains a strong, effective safety net for all farmers, including the nation’s rice growers,” USA Rice Federation Chairman Al Montna said.

The president has threatened to veto the farm bill conference committee report reconciling the House and Senate versions of the bill lawmakers had already passed. With today’s vote, Congress has reauthorized for five years legislation that provides nearly $300 billion in commodity, conservation, nutrition, trade and other programs.

“At a time when food security is paramount in the minds of all people, it is important that the United States never become dependent upon foreign sources for its food,” said USA Rice Producers’ Group Chairman Tommy Hoskyn. “This farm bill helps ensure that not only can American farmers continue to supply the safest, highest quality food possible, but also that America’s consumers receive the food security and assistance they deserve. We would like to thank all the senators and representatives who supported the farm bill, particularly those from rice growing states for supporting our industry.”

The provisions of the farm bill also provide unparalleled support for nutrition, conservation, renewable energy, and specialty crops.

“We are prepared to work with Congress to ensure a strong veto override vote if the President follows through with his intended veto of the farm bill,” USA Rice President and CEO Betsy Ward said. “We look forward to working with Congress to make certain this critical piece of legislation becomes law to provide the stability and security our nation’s farmers and consumers need.”

All rice-state senators and almost all rice House members voted for the conference report.

— 30 —

The USA Rice Federation is the global advocate for all segments of the U.S. rice industry with a mission to promote and protect the interests of producers, millers, merchants and allied businesses.