James M. Jeffords: “I rise today to voice my frustration about the events that unfolded today regarding the Agricultural Economic Assistance…”

“I rise today to voice my frustration about the events that unfolded today regarding the Agricultural Economic Assistance Act. I am disappointed for one reason. This legislation leaves my farmers behind. Of the $5.5 billion in this bill, only a very small amount goes to Vermont or any of the farms in our area of the country. Only $1.5 million out of the $5.5 billion in this package will reach Vermonters. That amounts to only about $1,000 per farm. Mr. President, 50 percent of the money goes to 10 States. Our dairy farmers are the hardest working, most efficient. The compact has no Federal cost. It is without question that the states in the Northeast are left out. During the proceedings on this bill, there was much talk about the amount of the overall spending package. As we continue to wrestle with budget and spending concerns, I encourage my colleagues to take a look at a program that provides assistance and stability for farmers at no cost to the federal government, the Northeast Interstate Dairy Compact.”