Senator Amy Klobuchar

Working for the People of Minnesota

Press Contact

Joel Gross
Press Secretary
(202) 224-3244

News Releases

Klobuchar Statement on Bush's Farm Bill Proposal

January 31, 2007

(Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar today commented on the Bush Administration's proposal on the farm bill. Klobuchar's priorities for the farm bill include: a farm safety net that offers security to farmers, permanent disaster relief that will aid farmers with factors beyond their control, a continuation of dairy and sugar programs and a strong energy title.

"I am deeply concerned about the president's proposal to make drastic changes to the farm safety net. Minnesota's farmers are satisfied with the program they have and want to see it extended," said Klobuchar. "The president's proposal also fails to include a permanent disaster assistance program and that is unacceptable."

"While I am pleased that the proposal includes a continuation of the sugar program, I am concerned that it makes room for foreign imports by reducing domestic sugar production; I will work with my colleagues on the agriculture committees to address this issue."

The president's plan also includes an extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program which Senator Klobuchar said was a positive step. However, Klobuchar expressed concern with a reduction in payment rate over the five year life of the bill and will ask that the rate not be reduced.

 

Senator Klobuchar’s Offices

302 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Main Line: 202-224-3244
Main Fax: 202-228-2186
Toll Free: 1-888-224-9043

1200 Washington Avenue South, Suite 250
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Main Line: 612-727-5220
Main Fax: 612-727-5223
Toll Free: 1-888-224-9043

1134 7th Street NW
Rochester, MN 55901
Main Line: 507-288-5321
Fax: 507-288-2922

121 4th Street South
Moorhead, MN 56560
Main Line: 218-287-2219
Fax: 218-287-2930

Olcott Plaza, Suite 105
820 9th Street North
Virginia, MN 55792
Main Line: 218-741-9690
Fax: 218-741-3692