PRESIDENT SIGNS FARM BILL WITH PRODUCER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE At
long last, the Farm Bill, the source of much debate for the last several
months, was signed into law on Monday, May 13, 2002. The ceremony began at
the early hour of 6:45 a.m.
The signing was in the presence of the Members of Congress and
Washington representatives of farm groups, but the President was also
surrounded by farmers whose futures are profoundly effected by the bill.
Gary Broyles, NAWG president, was pleased that there were many farmers
not only present, but also standing in observance of the bill signing. “It
was a great honor for us to even be present,” Broyles said. “It was an
overwhelming feeling to see the culmination of 2 ˝ years of hard work that
NAWG has put into this farm bill.” Acknowledging the compromises required
for passage, Broyles echoed the words of President Bush that while not a
perfect bill, the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 is a good
bill. “NAWG members should be proud of the input they had into the
effort”, Broyles said.
While there has been a great deal of critical response to the farm
bill, for wheat producers there is, at long last, a sense of security
about the future. NAWG readily acknowledges that its policy prefers more
support through fixed and decoupled payments that are trade friendly and
are more cost-effective, and thus provide a greater return to producers.
However, the completion of a bill depended on compromise as well as
determination.
Sue Broyles, wife of Gary Broyles, NAWG president, was also present.
“We stood right behind him and had the opportunity to have a few words
with him,” she said.” What a once in a lifetime opportunity! It was very
encouraging to know what a genuine man President Bush is. He really
cares,” she said.
Also in attendance were Al Skogen, Past Chair of NAWG’s Domestic Policy
Committee and his wife Janelle as well as Daren Coppock, NAWG CEO.
President Bush referred to the farm bill as “generous but affordable.”
While there was increased spending for commodities, there were many
winners in this bill, not the least of which is conservation. Conservation
spending was increased by 80%. Also receiving increased benefits are food
and nutrition programs as well as rural development.
Congressman Larry Combest, who predicted that there would be a farm
bill for the 2002 crop year has clearly demonstrated that he could deliver
the bill he promised. That having been accomplished, NAWG is focusing on a
study of the provisions of the bill and providing technical assistance
with implementation
