[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 18 (Friday, February 25, 1994)]
[House]
[Page H]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 25, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                     INCREASE IN LOAN RATE OF WHEAT

  Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, in my remaining minute I will indicate 
that Secretary Espy announced just an hour or so ago something of 
significant importance to my State. Secretary Espy announced an 
increase in the loan rate of wheat of 13 cents a bushel. The Secretary 
announced that he was increasing the loan rate 13 cents a bushel to 
$2.58 a bushel.
  That may not mean much to anybody who does not raise wheat or does 
not come from an agricultural State. It is a step, yes, a baby step, 
but a step in the right direction finally.
  Loan rates have been for too long too low. We have collapsed in the 
last decades for a number of reasons.
  This Secretary and this administration finally are moving in the 
right direction to try to improve farm income by increasing the loan 
rate.
  I commend Secretary Espy. I would like to see a higher increase, but 
it is refreshing this morning to be able to say this Secretary at least 
has taken a step in the right direction for family farmers, and I hope 
that we can help them do ever more in the weeks and months ahead.
  Mr. President, let me thank the managers of the bill for according me 
this opportunity to say a few words today about three doctors who 
tragically lost their lives yesterday.
  I yield the floor.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER [Mrs. Murray]. The Senator from West Virginia 
is recognized.
  Who yields time?
  Mr. BYRD. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that I may consume 
as much time as I require without it being charged to the time on this 
amendment. I do not expect to speak more than 15 or 20 minutes at the 
most, and what I have to say will have nothing to do with the business 
before the Senate today.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  The Senator will be speaking as if in morning business for up to 20 
minutes.

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