RAPID CITY, S.D. - U.S. Senator John Thune (R-SD) was in Rapid City attending the last day of the Black Hills Stock Show, where he met with constituents and discussed the 2018 Farm Bill and its future.
The Farm Bill comprises essential programs and policies aimed at mitigating risks for producers, farmers, and ranchers. While the 2018 Farm Bill was initially set to expire last year, it received an extension until September of this year. However, disagreements from the parties on priorities have led to a standstill in the reauthorization process.
Thune stated, "It's covered, but with that is no substitute for a multi-year reauthorization of the farm bill. I'm hoping we can come to an agreement on the funding issue so we can move forward because we don't want to have to do another extension that shouldn't be necessary. But these differences are not inconsequential about how to prioritize different titles within the bill and where the money ends up going."
Since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, farmers and ranchers have faced numerous challenges, including an increase in farming expenses and a decrease in overall net income.
Thune assured that he would continue to advocate for South Dakota's farmers and ranchers, working towards a bill that addresses the needs of agriculture in the state.
As discussions continue in the senate, the goal to find common ground on funding issues and prioritize key aspects within the Farm Bill to support the resilience and prosperity of the agricultural community in America, is a must.Â
