Congresswoman Moore Statement on the 2008 Farm Bill Conference Report

WASHINGTON— Congresswoman Gwen Moore released the following statement today regarding the 2008 Farm Bill Conference Report.

“The 2008 Farm Bill represents an opportunity for Congress to make important reforms to this nation’s farm policy. Unfortunately, the 2008 farm bill missed the mark and did not go far enough to ensure that we put an end to unnecessary subsidies to wealthy farmers.”

“I am very pleased that additional funding has been given to nutrition programs in a time when there is a growing global hunger crisis.  I celebrate the much needed increased funding for the Food Stamp Program as well as increased funding for our nation’s depleting food banks. I am also pleased that the bill included increased funding for the USDA Fruits and Vegetables Snack program which provides needy school children with healthy foods to keep them energized and ready to learn throughout the school day.”

“But Congress missed the opportunity to make substantial reforms to farm subsidy programs. In the midst of a global food crisis and rising food prices here at home, the bill continues to give billions in government assistance to the largest and wealthiest landowners which, in turn, keeps food prices high for consumers and makes it difficult for impoverished countries to grow their own crops.”

“Congress must continue to work towards making agriculture fairer for all farmers around the world rather than locking the United States into another short-sighted five-year farm deal that hinders the desperate efforts of small farmers in developing countries that live on less than $1 a day.”

“While I applaud the increases in nutrition, I will continue to push for further reforms to farm subsidy programs and increased funding for nutrition and wellness programs.”

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For an interview with Congresswoman Gwen Moore, please contact Derrick Plummer at 202-225-4572.

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