(ND Ag Connection) – By Scout Nelson

Representatives from several prominent agriculture organizations, including the North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU), are in Washington, D.C. this week to urge lawmakers to pass a comprehensive farm bill. The bill has faced delays in Congress due to intense debate over which programs should receive funding.

Farmers across North Dakota are busy harvesting their crops, but many are concerned about low commodity prices. Despite expectations for a good yield, the financial returns for their efforts remain uncertain due to declining prices for the state’s primary crops.

NDFU President Mark Watne is optimistic that the new farm bill will include increased funding to support North Dakota farmers. He points out that rising operating expenses combined with low crop prices are causing significant financial pressure on local farmers.

“I remain hopeful that a farm bill could be passed by next month,” Watne says. However, he acknowledges that disagreements over program funding have delayed the process. One of the major points of contention is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which was not included in the version of the bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives this week.

Watne believes a compromise could be reached to support farmers and lower-income families through SNAP. He adds that the best opportunity to pass the farm bill would be before the general election in November.

Farm groups are pressing lawmakers to act quickly and ensure that both agricultural and nutrition programs receive the necessary support.