Rep. Foster Stands Up For Farmers and Rural America

Press Release

Today, Rep. Bill Foster (IL-14) joined with four members of the Illinois Republican delegation in voting to support the Farm Bill, which passed the House by a strong bipartisan vote of 318-106.

"The Farm Bill will aid the farmers in the 14th Congressional District of Illinois and will simultaneously address the unique needs of rural communities," Foster said. "The Farm bill we have passed today is the result of a bipartisan effort to protect and preserve American farming; my vote for this bill is a vote for Illinois farmers."

H.R. 2419, the Farm, Nutrition, and Bioenergy Act, makes an investment in rural America. Specifically, the bill aids rural areas by renewing programs that provide vital infrastructure and improving access to broadband telecommunications services. The bill also allows for economic growth by extending job training grants, improving access to technology and providing technical and financial assistance to small businesses in rural areas.

"Rural areas throughout the district will benefit greatly from this legislation, as it not only provides for current farmers, it also promotes the future of American agriculture," Foster said.

The legislation provides funding for socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers, enhancing the outreach, technical assistance and educational efforts. In addition, the bill will invest in the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, which provides training, education, outreach and technical assistance initiatives for farmers and ranchers who are just entering the field.

The bill has been endorsed by the American Farm Bureau Association and the Illinois Farmers Union.

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