On the recordJuly 9, 2012
As the House Agriculture Committee considers farm bill legislation, I rise in strong support of responsible policies for all of our agriculture producers, especially the sugar, rice, and soybean industries. Our no-cost sugar program has kept sugar supplies stable in this country, while allowing for industry expansion under the 2008 farm bill. Last week, the St. Mary Parish Chamber of Commerce passed a resolution highlighting the critical importance of the sugar industry to south Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I will enter it into the Congressional Record later. The sugar industry contributes $3.5 billion annually to Louisiana's economy, while supplying more than 16,000 jobs. I'm pleased to see the chairman's initial draft language also includes multiple risk management options benefiting south Louisiana rice and soybean farmers. The chairman recognizes that a one-size-fits- all policy for our Nation's diverse agricultural economy is not feasible. I applaud their effort to work with all commodity groups to come up with an excellent final product in this farm bill. As the farm bill moves forward in the House, I urge my colleagues to support policies that will work for all agriculture producers--not just some, but all--including Louisiana farmers. ____________________
