The continuing resolution is now law; what areas got a boost and how do lawmakers feel?

President Trump has signed a measure to continue funding the government through September, with some small increases to ag programs.

The continuing resolution keeps spending largely in line with last year’s levels, but there are increases at USDA for WIC. The resolution also puts overall USDA spending at around $400 million more than last year.

Areas like EPA experienced a $2 billion increase, but ethanol groups were disappointed. The legislation did not include any backings of year-round E15.

Senator Deb Fischer tells AgriPulse she is disappointed about E15 getting left behind, but says it is a good overall bill. She says it had broad support and will prove good for ag producers and consumers alike. The bill will fund the government through September, which is when the current extension of the 2018 Farm Bill expires.

Related Stories
In a statement provided to RFD-TV News, a USDA spokesperson reiterated President Trump and the USDA’s commitment to farmers in difficult economic times.
China is not one of our top suppliers of cooking oil, according to USDA ERS data, but does export a lot of used cooking oil to the U.S. for biofuel production.
Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined RFD-TV’s Market Day Report to share insight into what’s happening on the ground and in the markets.
A new proposal from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could transform how farmers use drones, allowing commercial operators to fly beyond their visual line of sight.
“USDA can no longer keep wasting its time and personnel to deploy Commissioner Miller’s infamous traps, which USDA has deployed, tested, and has proven ineffective.”
Expect choppier basis and wider bids — hedge earlier, keep logistics flexible, and watch Argentina and India headlines for near-term opportunities.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Cattle markets are watching the Cattle-on-Feed Report for signs of tighter supplies, while USMEF warns limited China access is cutting producer profits.
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg outlines the Farm Bridge Assistance Program and responds to calls from lawmakers and ag leaders for more assistance and expanded trade opportunities for farmers.
Callahan is no stranger to agricultural trade and has been with the U.S. Trade Representative’s office since 2016.
The Pet and Livestock Protection Act now moves to the Senate for consideration.