Release No. 0107.02

Alisa Harrison   (202) 720-4623

 

SECRETARY VENEMAN COMMENTS ON CONFERENCE COMMITTEE AGREEMENT FOR FARM BILL SPENDING

 

March 19, 2002

 

Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman issued the following statement after the House and Senate Conference Committee announced a general framework agreement for farm bill spending over the next ten years.

 

 

“We are pleased with the announcement by the Conference Committee on a basic framework agreement for farm bill spending over the next ten years.  The Administration has strongly supported adherence to the $73.5 billion budget agreement and this is positive news in that regard. 

 

“The Administration is hopeful that during the recess, further progress can be made that would lead to final passage of a farm bill in early April.  We are fast approaching the critical time where implementation of a new measure for this crop year could be problematic if an agreement is not reached soon. 

 

“USDA stands ready to implement a new farm bill this year and our team has been working on implementation measures during the last few months.  However, each week that passes makes this formidable task ever more challenging.

 

“Again, we are pleased with the framework spending agreement reached by the Conference Committee and will continue to work with all Members in a bipartisan manner to help reach consensus on a new farm bill that meets the President’s objectives.”

 

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