Farm Bill Urgency

At the USDA Ag Outlook Forum, American Sugarbeet Growers Association President/CEO Luther Markwart emphasized the urgent need for a new farm bill. “It is incredibly difficult out on the farm right now,” Markwart said. “Our input costs are up, commodity prices, including sugar, are coming down, and we’re getting caught in that pinch. We have got to get a farm bill done.” Sugar beet and cane growers have been actively engaging with lawmakers, visiting about 140 congressional offices to push for a stronger safety net amid growing financial uncertainty. Markwart noted that while there is broad consensus on the need for action, funding remains a key obstacle. “We’ve got a horrible budget deficit, we’ve got huge debt, and the president has stepped in to try to address it across the board.” Click here to listen to the full interview.