The current farm bill is set to expire on September 30th, and both chambers of Congress have yet to produce a draft for consideration. House Ag Committee chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson says he is working with Congressional leaders to extend the current farm bill until a new one can be passed.
Thompson hopes the extension will be a short one but acknowledges that it is likely to be necessary. Congress will be facing several other deadlines in the coming months, including a budget deal and a National Defense Authorization Act.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson also spoke at the farm bill listening session, and he advocated for more assistance for Missouri farmers who are dealing with persistent drought. According to Parson, nearly 92% of Missouri is experiencing drought conditions.
Parson said that recent rains have helped, but they have come too late in the summer to make a significant impact. He also said that most farmers entered the year with depleted hay reserves due to last year's drought.
Parson said that more is needed to help Missouri farmers, and he is committed to doing everything he can to help them.
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy