WASHINGTON – National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew today released the following statement in response to the administration’s announcement of $12 billion in one-time bridge payments for American farmers struggling with volatile markets, high input costs and trade uncertainty.
“We appreciate the administration’s decision to deliver economic assistance to family farmers and ranchers at a time of serious stress. Across the country, farmers are confronting the combined pressures of disrupted trade, rising input costs, and depressed commodity markets. This relief will provide near-term support for many farmers working hard just to stay afloat.
“Short-term payments, while important, are only a first step. What we truly need are long-term structural fixes that restore viability and stability to family farms and ranches for generations to come. In real-time, we are experiencing the consequences of farm policy that is woefully outdated. The farm safety net can’t keep up with today’s economic realities. Input costs remain high, trade relationships are uncertain, access to affordable healthcare is in danger and the stress on rural communities continues to grow.
“That is why NFU is committed to working with Congress to design a new farm bill that reflects today’s realities. We’re investing in research, convening with our members, and bringing forward bold, forward-looking ideas from a reimagined farm safety net and stable market mechanisms, to strengthened protections against consolidation driving up costs for both farmers and consumers.”
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