Farm Bill Conferees Hold First Public Meeting

Last week, NPMA staff attended the first public meeting of the House and Senate conference committee on the Farm Bill. Composed of 56 members, including nine Senators and 47 Representatives, this group is responsible for working out the significant differences between the House and Senate versions of the legislation. Opening statements provide a chance for members to outline their priorities; mention in an opening statement is a good indicator of what individual members are willing to fight hard for. Rep Davis (R-IL-13) spoke on the importance of “provisions which offer regulatory relief for my farmers. These provisions include my bill to extend the authorization for pesticide registrations, language to reduce duplicative permit requirements, and language to clarify the role of state agencies in pesticide regulation.” Rep Yoho (R-FL-3) echoed the importance of ensuring a “scientific basis for regulation of pesticides when used on farms or in homes.” Unfortunately, several members, including Rep. Grijalva (D-AZ-3) noted their opposition to anything pesticide related, ensuring that this discussion will be incredibly partisan. Also mentioned by multiple Republican members was the need to repeal the 2015 WOTUS Rule to allow EPA time to put forward a new rule.