Lawmakers are urging commodity groups that want to have a voice in shaping the next farm bill to offer specific ideas during congressional hearings next year.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Larry Combest, R-Texas, urged groups to stay away from generalities when presenting thoughts for the next farm bill to lawmakers.

NCBA will be an active voice during the next farm bill debates, urging lawmakers to continue to move away from price supports and toward a more market-oriented system.

“During our annual convention in San Antonio, NCBA grassroots members will help us shape the specific policy we will advocate during the farm bill debates,” said Bryan Dierlam, NCBA associate director of legislative issues. “

The House Ag Committee plans to begin farm bill hearings in February. The committee’s initial work will focus on possible change in crop supports to offset a slump in grain prices. The committee will later examine farm policy law.

NCBA will remain active during all hearings to ensure provisions focusing on other commodity sectors will not have an adverse effect on cattle producers.