2018 Farm Bill Priorities

Congressman Jodey Arrington Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON D.C. I am proud to represent rural America and the hardworking God-fearing freedom-loving agriculture producers who call West Texas home. I am even prouder to represent our region at this critical juncture reauthorizing a new Farm Bill. With ongoing discussions happening here in West Texas and in Washington I thought I would send along a few priorities that if achieved will ensure not only a strong viable ag sector for West Texas and rural America but continued economic growth that will benefit all Americans. Priority #1 It is a risky business to produce the food and fiber that we consume daily in this country. There is volatility in the markets including weather and market instability. It is incredibly important that we make certain our producers have the risk management tools that provide certainty and security to stabilize the ag economy - fortunately we address that in the House version of the Farm Bill by protecting and improving the farm safety net. Priority #2 Nearly half of rural Americans lack access to broadband services.Investments in rural infrastructure like broadband technology are needed to finally close the digital divide between urban and rural communities Priority #3 Lastly our nation needs policies that encourage people to work if they are capable rather than ones that push people into generational poverty and government reliance. With over 70 of the Farm Bills funding going to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) we need policies that encourage work stop trapping people in the cycle of government dependence and fill the millions of surplus jobs in America 7 million to be exact. Its time for folks to get off the sidelines by instituting work requirements for able-bodied adults  its not only good for taxpayers and our economy but also its the right thing to do for folks who are recipients of food stamps. We want folks to realize their God-given fullest potential and we need the right policies to incentivize the right behavior. As discussions continue please know that I will continue fighting for our West Texas priorities in the final 2018 Farm Bill. It is an honor to be your Representative. Feel free to reach out to my office and let me know how I can best serve you. Your friend and fellow West Texan