Maria Cantwell: “I rise today to discuss the Lugar amendment to the Farm bill before us and to express my strong support for the…”

“I rise today to discuss the Lugar amendment to the Farm bill before us and to express my strong support for the nutrition provisions included in the underlying bill as introduced by Senator Harkin. I want to make it clear that while I appreciate Senator Lugar's investment in food stamps and food nutrition programs, I oppose the Lugar provisions on the commodity title because it undermines a crucial safety net for our Nation's farmers. These commodity assistance programs are vital to the competitiveness and survival of the U.S. farming base and the rural communities that depend on a healthy agricultural economy. I applaud Senator Lugar's attention to the need to expand the Food Stamp Program in this difficult economic time. The Food Stamp Program is one of the most effective and efficient ways we directly help low-income families, and the elderly and disabled. The language in Senator Harkin's bill will make this important program more efficient and effective for those who rely on it most.”