Press Releases

Washington - Congressman Jack Bergman released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2 - The Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018.

"First District farmers face much uncertainty after years of natural disasters, trade issues, and unsteady global markets. Our Farm Bill provides stability to Michigan farmers as they supply our district, country, and the world with food," said Bergman. 

Congressman Bergman continued, "Ensuring access to highspeed broadband throughout rural First District communities remains a top priority. Provisions in this Farm Bill will help level the playing field between urban and rural areas by investing in long-term broadband deployment programs through USDA for our rural communities in Michigan's First District."

In addition, the Farm Bill:

• Combines the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to streamline and support the conservation efforts of farmers in the First District;

• Protects Michigan cherry farmers by maintaining crop insurance framework so farmers, bankers, and businesses in the First District have a responsible support structure in cases of  adverse weather or unexpected loss;

• Eliminates duplicative and unnecessary regulations to get the government off the backs and out of the pockets of American farmers;

• Allows the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize projects in communities dealing with the challenges of the opioid epidemic;

• Makes significant investments for low-income Americans seeking further education;

• Reforms the SNAP program, while maintaining vital nutrition assistance for those in need; and

• Maintains Good Neighbor Authority provisions, allowing the Forest Service to enter into agreements with States for forest management services.