Thursday afternoon, President Trump signed the 2018 farm bill. South Dakota Farm Bureau President Scott VanderWal says it’s a good measure with not many changes from the previous legislation but will be helpful with the inclusion of a solid safety net.

He says the importance of having this farm bill in place is highlighted by the tough economic conditions farmers and ranchers have been weathering with low commodity prices and the need for assistance.

VanderWal says one of the most important components in the farm bill is the flexibility provided farmers in choosing ARC or PLC payments and not being tied to one for the life of the farm bill.

By passing the farm bill during the lame duck session, Congress was able to avoid having to start over in January with new legislation.