Political Quotes

“I take a moment to thank the chairman for his leadership in putting forward a bill that is balanced and that meets the criteria laid out, the needs expressed by Members on both sides of the aisle. I thank the Senator for putting together a package addressing those crops that are not considered program crops but are in severe financial situations. One example in the great State of Michigan, among many, are our apple growers who have needed assistance and received assistance--late but did receive assistance--last year. I am deeply concerned when we hear as much as 30 percent of the apple growers in this country will not make it past this season. If we are to look at their needs for, not the fiscal year, but as the Senator eloquently stated in the past, the crop year, and the needs of the farmers, it means the version that came from the Senate committee needs to be the version adopted. I ask my esteemed chairman, it is my understanding in the amendment before the Senate, there is not a specific loss payment for apple growers; is that correct? ... it is my understanding this amendment adopted by the House of Representatives would not address the serious needs of America's apple growers.”