| National Farmers Union (NFU) today concluded the Week of Action that gathered more than 100 farmers from across the country to the halls of Congress and spurred local action from hundreds of family farmers and ranchers in their home states. Farmers Union members’ message was clear: farmers across the country are facing a perfect storm of volatile markets, rising input costs, shrinking federal support and mounting trade tensions — all with no new farm bill in sight. “We are so deeply indebted to over 100 farm families who have taken time from what is the busiest time of year for many farmers and ranchers to travel here, deliver the news themselves and tell their stories about why action is so necessary right now,” said NFU President Rob Larew. On Tuesday, May 6, NFU hosted a press conference with Representative Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) at the House Triangle to spotlight five farmers who shared their personal stories on how the lack of a farm bill has caused stress and uncertainty during the crucial planting season. “Prices are low, and the time to do something for our family farmers and ranchers is now,” said NFU Vice President Jeff Kippley. “Our safety net right now is inadequate. That is why we are taking time off of our farms and ranches when we should be calving out cattle, putting them to grass, putting seeds in the ground. We are out here in D.C. talking to our legislators and asking them to get the job done. Let’s get to work, let’s roll up our sleeves and let’s get a farm bill.” Farmers Union members advocated for easing the burden on farmers by passing a strong, united and comprehensive five-year farm bill that strengthens the farm safety net, builds upon voluntary conservation programs, fosters fairness and opportunity in the marketplace, delivers fast and reliable risk management programs and garners broad support from both farmers and consumers. |
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