Tester and Bullock Commend Senate for Passage of Farm Bill

A new five-year Farm Bill passed in the Senate on Tuesday by a vote of 68 to 32.Montana Senator Jon Tester and Montana Governor Steve Bullock both commented on the passing of the Farm Bill:

“After too many fits and starts, Montana farmers and ranchers finally have the long-term Farm Bill they need," Tester said. "This is a responsible bill that supports production agriculture, saves taxpayers billions and lets our farmers and ranchers plan for the future. I will continue to support Montana’s hard-working producers that put food on our plates and drive our state’s number one industry.”

The Farm Bill includes legislation and provisions to protect prime hunting and fishing habitat.

“But I’m not encouraging folks to vote for this bill just for the sake of certainty," Tester said. "You should also vote for it because I think it strengthens the hands of farmers, ranchers and the American families who depend on them.”

Bullock also commended the Senate for the bill's passage.

“This farm bill provides certainty, strengthens our agricultural industry and creates jobs, while ensuring food for those who need it the most: hungry children, seniors and veterans," Bullock said. "The bill also extends Payments in Lieu of Taxes, important for local governments and rural economies, while protecting and improving millions of acres of habitat that provide more hunting and fishing opportunities.”

President Barack Obama is expected to quickly sign the bill into law.

The new Farm Bill will expire in 2018.