D.C. Has One Week To Prevent Second Shutdown

Federal lawmakers hope to avert another government shutdown this Friday and avoid a further toll on agriculture and other government-dependent sectors.  The thought of another partial government shutdown is too much to bear for most politicians, including those from the president’s own party—and especially those from heavy agricultural districts.

“That partial government shutdown does not allow the bipartisan provisions that we put in place in this farm bill to be implemented," said Central Illinois Republican Rodney Davis.  "Because the United States Department of Agriculture employees aren’t going to be able to implement those new provisions.”

The historic 35-day shutdown of USDA and other departments forced FSA county offices to close, temporarily, denying producers key services.  Davis added preventing another shutdown will take compromise.

“I hope all members of Congress, both sides of the aisle, will take a step back and think about that, and urge all sides of leadership to come together and get a solution. That’s going to be best, not just for America, it’s going to be best for our Ag economy and for our farmers.”

Congressional negotiators reported some progress on the key issue of border barrier funding the president’s requested.  But, whether that’s enough or too much for each side was still in question, heading up to the next shutdown deadline, Friday.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com