With Senate passage of a new, five-year farm bill last week – all eyes are on the House this week. House Speaker John Boehner says he is prepared to vote on a new farm bill – which is a positive outcome compared to last year when House Leadership decided not to bring the bill to the floor. House Ag Committee Chairman Frank Lucas has said the bill should only take two days of consideration in the chamber. 25×25 says it’s critical the federal government continue to invest in programs offering big returns – such as those promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency – which offer economic boosts through job creation. Also – the group says U.S. independence of foreign oil is further accelerated with programs helping biofuels production. The group adds the generation of sustainably produced power helps improve the environment. 25×25 says the House has an opportunity to further the nation on its path to a clean energy future while giving ag producers and rural communities the additional economic opportunities they deserve.
The group expects an amendment to be offered in the House that would make a significant portion of the money marked for farm energy programs mandatory – which would strengthen these programs. 25×25 urges lawmakers to accept this amendment and continue the prosperity offered by renewable energy in rural America.
Source: NAFB News Service