Amy Klobuchar: Correct Farm Bill abuses

The Farm Bill flaw

Where are the checks being sent? Too often, to wealthy investors in places like New York or Beverly Hills.

by Sen. Amy Klobuchar

America's farm safety net was created during the Great Depression as an essential reform to support rural communities and protect struggling family farmers from the financial shocks of volatile weather and equally volatile commodity prices.

Almost 75 years later, the reasons for maintaining that strong safety net still exist.

The 2002 Farm Bill actually spurred rural development by allowing farmers in Minnesota and across the country to take risks to expand production. Because of productivity gains and innovation, including advances in renewable energy, the farm support programs in the 2002 Farm Bill actually came in $17 billion under budget.

As the Senate debates a final 2007 Farm Bill this week, it is important not to underestimate the value of a strong bill for states like Minnesota, where agriculture is vital to our economy and way of life.

The new Farm Bill includes an increased focus on cellulosic-based ethanol, continued support for a strong commodity safety net and additional money for conservation, nutrition and disaster relief. It will invest in our farms and rural communities.

But there is one critical area where more reform is needed: stopping urban millionaires from pocketing farm subsidies intended for hard-working farmers.

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