Chuck Grassley: “I rise today to introduce vitally important legislation to promote the well-being of America's family farms by extending…”

“I rise today to introduce vitally important legislation to promote the well-being of America's family farms by extending chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code. This bill, which is known as ``safety 2000,'' will also make needed changes to chapter 12 which will make it work better for family farmers. I'm pleased that Senator Daschle is joining with me in this effort to save family farms. In Iowa, pork prices recently hit an all time low. Pork producers are facing serious hardship, and we must make sure that those farmers who need bankruptcy relief to help save their farming operation have meaningful protections. Last year, again with the distinguished minority leader, I introduced legislation to make chapter 12 permanent. That legislation passed the Senate by unanimous consent. However, the legislation was not enacted into law. On April 1 of this year, chapter 12 will expire. Mr. President, we cannot let this happen. As the only family farmer in the Senate, I feel I have a unique responsibility to make sure that family farming remains a strong and vibrant part of American life. For generations, family farms have fed this country. But farming has always had rough periods. Allowing chapter 12 to expire will repeat a fatal mistake of the past.”