Political Quotes

“I will vote against the farm bill conference report. I believe that the farm bill, in its present form, goes against the true purpose of a farm bill--to help America's farmers. While I support the reauthorization of the Conservation Reserve Program and other conservation and nutrition programs, I do not believe this bill is in Maryland's interests. I realize that spring planting is fast approaching, but that is no reason to be forced into accepting a bill that will hurt Maryland farmers and the Maryland industries that depend on our farmers. This bill does just that. I believe that the Freedom to Farm Act, included in this bill, will have harmful long-term effects on the family farmer in Maryland. This bill puts the family farm up for sale. The bill does not provide a strong enough safety net for farmers. Setting a flat subsidy rate, then removing it in 7 years, without allowing flexibility during extreme economic conditions or natural disasters, is dangerous for farmers in Maryland and across the country. Under this conference agreement, producers will be paid even when prices are high, but will not receive necessary protection when prices are low. I am particularly concerned that this bill continues and expands the Sugar Price Support Program to the detriment of cane refiners such as Domino in my hometown of Baltimore. This sugar program jeopardizes the future of the cane refining industry.”