[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 137 (Friday, October 12, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1860]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       FARM SECURITY ACT OF 2001

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                               speech of

                             HON. TOM UDALL

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 5, 2001

  Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, my vote on H.R. 2646, the Farm 
Security Act of 2001 has been a difficult one. I have struggled to 
determine how H.R. 2646 would benefit rural farmers and ranchers in 
northern New Mexico. I have always been a strong advocate for family 
farmers in New Mexico and I want these hardworking families to be 
successful and their farms profitable. However, H.R. 2646 fails these 
families in many ways. This new farm bill encourages overproduction 
while prices are low, fails to adequately help small farmers, and 
increases federal spending in times of economic uncertainty.
  After much thought, I must agree with President Bush and his analysis 
of H.R. 2646. I want to support a farm bill that is better for rural 
America, supports the environment, and expands the opportunities for 
our farmers in growing world markets. I agree with President Bush that 
H.R. 2646 fails to meet these objectives. For these and other reasons, 
I regret that I will vote against H.R. 2646 in its current form.
  I encourage the Administration to continue working with Congress to 
provide a plan that meets these new policy goals. Our current economic 
uncertainty, and some are starting to call it a recession, forces us to 
think wisely before spending. Combined with emergency aid, more tax 
packages and economic aid programs, we are facing some difficult fiscal 
hardships. For example, within the past several weeks, Congress passed 
a $40 billion emergency fund in response to the September 11th attacks; 
we have approved a $15 billion emergency aid package for U.S. 
commercial airlines; and we currently are negotiating with the 
President for an economic stimulus package that could reach $75 
billion. With that in mind, I can not support H.R. 2646 in its current 
form and in our current climate.
  I agree with President Bush, and I call for a thorough examination of 
current farm policy. Our current farm bill does not expire until 
September 2002. Let's take the time to get it right. We must modernize 
the nation's farm programs to reflect changing technologies, markets, 
and environmental agendas. Yet, we must develop a farm program that 
protects and supports small family farmers and ranchers such as those 
in New Mexico. I question how the Farm Security Act would help the 
small farmers and ranchers in an equitable way.
  Mr. Speaker, the next generation of the nation's farm programs should 
have the flexibility to meet the diverse needs of all farmers and 
ranchers. It is time to seize this unique opportunity to develop long-
term, progressive farm program solutions that are fair and benefit all 
farmers and ranchers.
  I am hopeful, however, that if this bill returns from a conference 
committee, it will contain the necessary improvements that will allow 
me to support this effort. I do support a new farm bill, but one that 
helps small farmers and ranchers, is strong on conservation, and is 
fiscally sound in uncertain economic times. I am confident the other 
body will produce a farm bill that we all can support to keep small 
family farmers and ranchers strong and in business.

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