McCarthy Statement on FARRM Passage

Washington D.C. – Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) released the following statement following House passage of the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013 (H.R. 2642):

"Today's passage of the FARRM Act is a victory for Kern and Tulare Counties, California agriculture, and American taxpayers. This bill saves nearly $20 billion and continues vital programs critical to our local communities that combat specialty crop pests and diseases, helps farmers access foreign markets to sell domestically-grown produce in order to create local jobs, significantly reforms Federal milk programs to help our struggling dairy producers remain competitive, and reauthorizes the popular EQIP program to help farmers conserve water and meet Federal air quality standards. In addition, the FARRM Act promotes research to combat FOV Race 4 in cotton and helps ensure vibrant honey bee populations important to almond producers in our region. Agriculture is the backbone of our local communities, and I am proud to have led my colleagues to pass the FARRM Act to help ensure hardworking families continue to have access to safe, reliable, and affordable food and produce."

In addition, below are reactions from some local agricultural leaders:

"Today's passage of the FARRM Act is welcome news for our local agriculture industry. The bill includes critical programs for our community from pest detection and eradication to promoting our specialty crops. I am also pleased for the continued support for agricultural research that is critical to our future. I appreciate the hard work and leadership of Congressman Kevin McCarthy to make sure our voices where heard developing this legislation."

- Steve Maniaci, President, Kern County Farm Bureau

"I want to thank Congressman McCarthy for his support in moving the 2013 Farm Bill forward today. Important reforms in this bill will help California dairies by moving the industry into a more stable position in the future. Today's House action is an important step in the process of accomplishing these goals, and we look forward to working with our Members of Congress to get a final bill through conference."

- Tom Barcellos, Porterville dairyman and Western United Dairymen President

"I'm very pleased the House passed the FARRM Act, and I commend Congressman McCarthy on his leadership on this issue. This bill renews vital programs that will help support and protect our local farming community from any potential injurious insects and diseases that may come our way."

- Ruben Arroyo, Kern County Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer

"As a Kern County resident, I see firsthand the importance of passing a new Farm Bill. Thanks to Congressman Kevin McCarthy for his efforts to strengthen the risk management tools for Kern County's farmers and ranchers. The agriculture economy is so very important to Kern County, and we all will benefit from this Farm Bill's passage."

- Todd Snider, Bakersfield crop insurance agent, Kern County Farm Bureau Board Member, and American Association of Crop Insurers Board Member