Welch Outlines Priorities & Prospects for Farm Bill

Press Release

On Tuesday at the Intervale in Burlington, Congressman Peter Welch was joined by representatives of Vermont's dairy farmers, vegetable growers, and nutrition advocates as he discussed the prospects for a Farm Bill in this Congress, as well as his priorities for the bill. The House Agriculture Committee is scheduled to take up the bill tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. The Senate Agriculture Committee is taking up its version of the bill today.

Welch said, "Vermont's agriculture sector is critical to our economy and to the livelihoods of hard working farmers all over the state. It is essential that Congress do its job and pass a Farm Bill to ensure the viability of our farms and the availability of nutritious food in our schools and to families in need."

At the event, Congressman Welch outlined his priorities for the bill:

Stabilize milk prices for dairy farmers;
Disaster insurance for vegetable growers;
Promote the use of local fruits and vegetables into school lunches;
Protect nutrition programs from unreasonable cuts;
Provide support for organic programs; and
Grow Vermont's maple industry through federal support for research and promotion.

Source