Dick Lugar: “I will summarize the case for freedom to farm which, as a matter of fact, is going to mean much greater flexibility and…”

“I will summarize the case for freedom to farm which, as a matter of fact, is going to mean much greater flexibility and freedom to farmers and provide really the greatest degree of safety over a 7-year period of time. Senators on the other side of the aisle supporting the distinguished Democratic leader's bill have talked about certainty and stability, about the fact that farmers could go out of business in large numbers in the rice business or in other commodities that have been mentioned. There always is that danger, and this is one reason why the legislation has occurred. I simply say, Mr. President, if the desire is for security, freedom to farm is by far the preferable option simply because it does have a certain payment for 7 years. The Democratic leader's program is based upon current farm policy and lasts for 3 years, and, as I have pointed out, from my own experience even if there is a loan rate there or even if there are target prices and deficiency payments that come when market prices are lower, these are uncertain in volume. They are no more likely to provide stability or certainty that a farmer will stay in business. Mr. President, we are on the threshold, in my judgment, of an unprecedented period in American farm history dictated largely by our success in export markets.”