Marlee Moore
(334) 613-4219

The U.S. House of Representatives today passed a farm bill by a 213-211 vote. The farm bill, formally called the Agriculture & Nutrition Act of 2018, was earlier defeated in the House 198-213 May 18.

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Mitt Walker said the bill, which is voted on every four years, will reauthorize food, conservation and agricultural programs benefiting farmers and consumers. 

“Passing the farm bill is a step forward in providing certainty and stability for American farmers in times of uncertain market and trade conditions,” said Walker, the Federation’s National Legislative Programs director.

Alabama Republican Reps. Bradley Byrne, Martha Roby, Mike Rogers, Mo Brooks and Gary Palmervoted “yes,” while Alabama’s Democrat Rep. Terri Sewell voted “no.” Republican Rep. Robert Aderholt was called off the floor and unable to vote.

The U.S. Senate is expected to vote on its farm bill proposal before the Fourth of July recess.

Agriculture generates more than $70 billion in economic activity in Alabama annually and accounts for more than 500,000 jobs.