Lucas statement on status of Farm Bill conference committee negotiations

Washington – Chairman Frank Lucas issued the following statement after the four principals met today to discuss outstanding issues relating to the farm bill.

“We have made great progress on the farm bill and continue to have productive meetings. There are still some outstanding issues that we are addressing.  I am confident we’ll work through them and finish a farm bill in January.  Concurrent with our ongoing discussions this week, I will file legislation to extend the current farm bill through January to allow us to finish our work without the threat that permanent law will be implemented.  Having this option on the table is the responsible thing to do in light of our tight deadline.”

Background:

The 2002 farm bill was extended six times before the 2008 farm bill was enacted.