WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD News) — The farm bill is taking center stage in Washington this week, with the Senate Agriculture Committee set to mark up the legislation Thursday.
The markup gives committee members the opportunity to propose changes to the current bill text.
The legislation includes year-round sales of E15, although Committee Chairman John Boozman previously told reporters he would prefer to consider the provision as standalone legislation.
“Vote on it alone, vote on the farm bill alone. That’s why we haven’t combined it, out of again, trying to respect the House, what they had to do.”
The bill also includes updates to commodity, dairy, conservation and rural development programs.
Setbacks in July, including the absence of Sen. Mitch McConnell and Democratic objections to SNAP payment provisions, delayed action on the legislation. The Senate is scheduled to begin its August recess after this week.
The Senate’s E15 language differs from the House version in how it addresses small refinery exemptions. The provision could face opposition during Thursday’s markup, with the American Petroleum Institute calling the Senate language flawed.
API says it supports voluntary, nationwide sales of E15 when paired with reforms to the small refinery exemption program.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson said agriculture remains a top priority even as the chamber begins its August recess.
Speaking with reporters from his home state of Louisiana, Johnson said work on agricultural issues continues despite lawmakers being away from Washington.
Johnson pointed to the timber and biomass industries as markets poised for major growth. He said farmers need certainty, transparency and stability as Congress continues its work on agriculture.
