Dianne Feinstein: “Mr. President I am a strong supporter of the American farmer. I represent the largest farm State in this Nation and I…”

“Mr. President I am a strong supporter of the American farmer. I represent the largest farm State in this Nation and I believe in protecting the family farmer and helping to provide for rural America. California's farm economy produces approximately $30 billion annually and I take pride in the great number and vast diversity of crops the State produces. From the vegetables in the Imperial Valley to the dairy farms in the Central Valley and the wineries of Napa Valley, the State of California produces more of what goes on America's dinner table than anywhere else. In March, I visited the great Central Valley of California to hear what my constituents had to say about the agricultural policy we craft here in Washington, DC. I heard how much farmers depend on the programs in the farm bill and I am pleased that the Senate will be voting on the farm bill conference report today. Even though I have some concerns about what is in the conference report and this is by no means a perfect bill, I will vote to send this legislation to the President's desk because virtually every California farm and nutrition group has lined up to support it. However, I want to highlight my serious concern over an egregious ethanol program in this farm bill that was included at the last minute in conference.”