The Senate Farm Bill advanced through the Senate Agriculture Committee in September, moving a broad package of agricultural and nutrition policies toward consideration by the full Senate. The committee’s version includes a provision authorizing year-round sales of E15, while disagreements remain over California’s Proposition 12 and provisions affecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Senate Farm Bill Includes Year-Round E15
South Dakota Senator John Thune, a longtime member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, pointed to several agricultural priorities included in the legislation, including year-round E15 sales.
“One of the things that’s included in here is E15, which is something I think a lot of us have fought long and hard for, and which is really important to a lot of producers across this country,” Thune said.
The Senate Agriculture Committee’s Farm Bill 2.0 materials confirm that the legislation would authorize year-round sales of E15. The provision has also received support from members of both parties during the committee’s Farm Bill discussions.
The legislation also addresses farm risk management, conservation, specialty crops and other agricultural programs. Committee Chairman John Boozman has described the measure as containing more than 100 bipartisan priorities.
Proposition 12 and SNAP Remain Points of Debate
California’s Proposition 12 remains one of the issues being debated as lawmakers consider the broader legislation. Iowa Senator Joni Ernst sought language addressing the issue before the committee vote. The proposal discussed in the transcript would preserve existing state laws while addressing concerns about differing production requirements across states.
SNAP provisions have also generated disagreement. Democratic senators have raised concerns about provisions affecting how states and counties would share responsibility for SNAP costs. Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar has specifically called for additional time for states to adjust to changes in the legislation.
The committee ultimately advanced the Farm Bill after its September 16 business meeting. The legislation now moves to the full Senate for consideration, where additional debate and potential changes could occur.
As the process continues, agricultural producers and rural communities will be watching provisions affecting farm programs, energy markets, nutrition programs and agricultural production.
Listen to the accompanying podcast for more details on the Senate Farm Bill, the E15 provision, Proposition 12 and the issues still being debated as the legislation moves forward.