Minnesota.Senator Amy Klobuchar is calling for swift action to pass a strong, long-term Farm Bill. In a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing Thursday, Klobuchar underscored the importance of passing a five-year Farm Bill in the new Congress to give farmers and ranchers the support they need, especially in the face of drought and natural disasters.
                   
During the hearing, Klobuchar questioned witnesses about critical programs that protect farmers impacted by drought and natural disasters. In particular, Klobuchar highlighted the importance of emergency programs included in the 2012 Farm Bill, including her provision that would help farmers access land for haying and grazing during emergencies and funding for research to help develop drought and disease resistant seeds.
                   
The House did not act on the Senate-passed farm bill late last year and, intead, extended the current bill until this coming September.