The state’s leading farm group voiced strong disappointment in the negative vote on the farm bill today in the U. S. House of Representatives.
“We are extremely disappointed in the vote against the farm bill,” said Mike Spradling, president of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau. “Oklahoma’s farmers and ranchers need a farm bill now to help them plan for their next crop. No business can successfully operate without a plan and this negative vote will indefinitely delay business decisions.”
Spradling noted the farm bill is for everyone, not just farmers, and this rejection impacts all Americans.
“Farmers provide food and fiber for our citizens, as well as those around the world,” Spradling said. “We produce abundant crops despite the variable weather conditions and that is why this farm bill is so important. It would give farmers the protection and ability to manage risks with a solid crop insurance program.”
The bill was rejected on a 234 to 195 vote. There was overwhelming support from the Oklahoma delegation, with the lone exception of Rep. Jim Bridenstine, R-1.
“We appreciate all the hard work Rep. Lucas extended on our behalf,” Spradling said. “He (Lucas) has worked tirelessly on this legislation and I know he will continue to support farmers and ranchers as they reconsider the bill’s direction.”
