Marilyn Musgrave: “today we're going to be talking about the farm bill. There will be many criticisms of the farm bill, but I proudly stand…”

“today we're going to be talking about the farm bill. There will be many criticisms of the farm bill, but I proudly stand in support of this farm bill. Rural America is looking to us to make sure that there is a safety net for agriculture in this country. Reforms were asked for by our Speaker and by people on both sides of the aisle. This farm bill increases funding to food banks when they're suffering--dire need right now--it increases funding by $1.2 billion. The farm bill increases funding to conservation programs. These programs are very important to people around the Nation. And we know that farmers are the very best stewards of the land. It provides incentives for them when they implement innovative soil and water conservation programs. The farm bill increases investment in alternative energy research. We know that one of the number one concerns of America right now is that we lessen our dependence on foreign oil. But I believe the most important thing about this farm bill is that it does provide Americans with a safe and reliable food supply.”