Steve Buyer: “the Federal Agricultural Improvement and Reform Act [FAIR] is truly an historic opportunity for farmers and for rural…”

“the Federal Agricultural Improvement and Reform Act [FAIR] is truly an historic opportunity for farmers and for rural communities. This legislation seeks to reform Federal agriculture programs that begin to wean farmers off government subsidies and move them toward more market oriented principles. In addition, it consolidates existing grant and loan authorities and places primary administrative responsibility with the states and is the most environmentally friendly farm bill in 60 years. This legislation is a giant step in the right direction and I enthusiastically support it. Hoosier farmers will be the beneficiary of such incremental steps to move the farmer into the next century and be able to plant for the market. Washington bureaucrats have told farmers for far too long what to plant, when to plant, and where to plant. The result has been ineffective farm policy. The weaning of farmers off government subsidies is important to our country's financial health. Government should not be in the business of subsidizing inefficient operations. Technology is ever so important to farmers. If Indiana farmers are to successfully move into the next century and compete in the world marketplace, we must continue the public/private research initiatives. This legislation will aid in the transition into the market-oriented farm policy of the future. Furthermore, this legislation reduces the regulatory burden on farmers.”