Tom Harkin: “the farm bill before us was laid down 10 days ago. Yet during that time we have been blocked from voting on any…”

“the farm bill before us was laid down 10 days ago. Yet during that time we have been blocked from voting on any amendments--not one amendment in 10 days. So the majority leader has correctly filed a cloture motion in an effort to allow this body to offer, debate and vote on amendments and pass this vital legislation without further unreasonable delay. The cloture vote, I say to all, is pivotal, crucial as to whether we will have a new farm bill this year. Everyone knows it. Let me remind my colleagues of what is at stake, why it is so critically important that we put an end to the delay and move ahead. The pending legislation stays within strict pay-go budget limits. Yet we provide good farm income protection; we promote new economic opportunities for farm and ranch families, especially in the area of energy production; and we help dairy farmers and especially the specialty crop producers all across America. There is more in this bill for specialty crops than any farm bill ever passed in the history of this country. The bill boosts economic growth, jobs, and quality of life in rural America with rural development money in the bill. It makes major new investments in conservation of our natural resources, to save soil, increase water quality, restore wetlands and wildlife habitat. A big part of this farm bill will allow low-income Americans to put a little more food on the family table and to improve the diets not only of our families but of our kids in school.”