While he's glad lawmakers were able to pass legislation to avoid going over the fiscal cliff, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack encourages Congress to pass what he terms a much needed Food, Farm and Jobs Bill.
In a statement, Vilsack said, "While I am relieved that the agreement reached prevents a spike in the price of dairy and other commodities, I am disappointed Congress has been unable to pass a multi-year reauthorization of the Food, Farm and Jobs bill to give rural America the long-term certainty they need and deserve."
Vilsack promises to work with Congress to encourage passage of a reauthorized bill that includes a strong and defensible safety net for producers, expanded rural economic opportunity in the new bio-based economy, significant support for conserving our natural resources, increased commitment to important research, and support for safe and nutritious food.
Vilsack said it's imperative that a bill be passed as quickly as possible.
