Newhouse Feels Farm Bill Moving In The Right Direction

Representative Dan Newhouse is touring his Central Washington district this week, discussing the Farm Bill with growers and farmers.  He said the biggest concerns from local farmers is research dollars, keeping markets open and accessible, as well as labor.

The current farm bill runs through the end of September.  While few details have been released about the 2018 Farm Bill legislation, Newhouse is confident that Congress soon start to act.

“Word is that we should see language on the farm bill the week we get back, so a week after next, we should see at least the first draft, and reports are that a lot of the things in there we’re going to like.”

Newhouse added House Ag Commission chairman Mike Conaway has it as a personal goal to have the 2018 Farm Bill voted on by the end of September.  One of the early points of contention, as is every time the farm bill is discussed, is SNAP.

“I welcome those kinds of questions.  The democrats are going to have a say in how this passes because, as you know, in order to get through the Senate it has to have bipartisan support.  I hope they are anxious to work with us to get something passed that is good.”

Newhouse was our guest on yesterday’s Where Are We Wednesday.

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