(IDFA) – The Senate has begun floor consideration of the Farm Bill that it reported out of committee last week. This bill includes the Dairy Security Act and its supply management provision known as the Dairy Market Stabilization Program, which IDFA continues to oppose.
In today’s action, an amendment to reform the outdated U.S. sugar program was defeated by a vote of 45-54. The Sugar Reform Act, which IDFA supports, was introduced by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Pat Toomey (R-PA) and Mark Kirk (R-IL) to save consumers money by reforming domestic supply restrictions, lowering price support levels and ensuring adequate sugar supplies at reasonable prices.
The Senate may complete the Farm Bill this week, but many expect that it will be delayed until June 3 when Congress returns from its Memorial Day recess.
The House of Representatives also reported its Farm Bill out of committee last week, but floor consideration likely won’t take place until the week of June 17.
