This week the House Appropriations Committee passed out of their panel the 2020 Agriculture spending bill. The measure provides nearly $4 billion for rural development, $1.8 billion in farm programs, and $3.3 billion for agricultural research. Iowa Soybean Association President Lindsay Greiner says it’s encouraging to see the Committee members providing support for farmers who need it.

The legislation allocates $24 billion, four percent above the fiscal year 2019 level and more than $5.1 billion above the budget request. Greiner says while that’s a large bill funding wise is needed given all the pressure farmers have been under.

He says while the measure passed out of committee on a 29 to 21 vote means it will take some prodding to get the full house to pass it. Greiner is encouraged however that lawmakers are finally working together to get something positive done.

The sub-committee chairman says the bill invests in America’s fundamental needs and rejects the Administration’s radical cuts.