WASHINGTON, DC (RFD-TV) — Even as the government shutdown stretches into its third week, lawmakers are pressing forward on key pieces of ag legislation. The Senate Committee on Agriculture reconvened Tuesday to address more than a dozen measures — including the reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act — while farmers across the country continue to feel the effects of stalled aid, closed offices, and delayed market data.
The Senate Committee on Agriculture is reviewing dozens of pieces of legislation, including the reauthorization of the Fix Our Forests Act and several land bills. The first item on the agenda, reauthorizing the U.S. Grain Standards Act, passed unanimously, 23 to zero. Senate lawmakers discussed the House version, which passed earlier this year.
The U.S. Grain Standards Act was first enacted in 1916 under President Woodrow Wilson and has undergone many changes over the years. However, many major provisions within the bill expired at the end of September—for example, rules allowing the Grain Inspection Service to set standards during inspections and at weighing stations.
The National Grain and Feed Association previously warned that the bill “must be reauthorized” to protect the entire grain value chain.
Also on Tuesday morning, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will be in the hot seat. He is facing a Senate subcommittee regarding spending for next year.
Greer’s question will likely focus on budget needs, but he is also likely to be questioned about trade and how recent policy shifts have impacted his office. Greer recently returned from high-profile talks overseas as U.S. officials look to open more markets to replace China. Greer will take his seat before the committee this morning at 10:00 am ET.
Sen. Thune: Farmers Caught in the Middle of the Shutdown
As the shutdown enters day 20, Senate leadership is warning the White House that American farmers are getting caught in the middle of the ongoing situation. The White House has promised aid to farmers, but Ag Secretary Rollins said it will not arrive until the shutdown is over.
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat. He told reporters the move is aimed at assisting producers to address cash flow needs, but those loans would need to be processed by FSA employees, many of whom are on leave during the shutdown.
The shutdown is also putting a damper on harvest data. Weekly USDA Crop Progress Reports are on hold until the government reopens, but private numbers are still coming in.
A poll by Reuters shows the corn harvest could be lagging compared to last year. They found 44 percent of this year’s crop is now in the bin, but those numbers vary by state. In Iowa, agronomists say harvest is moving along quickly, with totals ranging from 35 to 55 percent. In Illinois, harvest is 60 percent complete. And in Nebraska, around 15 percent of the corn crop has been harvested.
