Farm Bill 2014 -

Americans better take note before it's illegal for you to speak up or make a choice for healthy food.  I think that some things, like looking out for animal welfare, is meant to be a good thing, it only serves to hurt the small farmers, the majority of the population who bring you food locally.

Here are some of the bullets of the articles I've read:

Some experts say it could:
• Block state and local governments from enacting bans on planting or even labeling genetically modified foods.
• Override animal welfare laws that require pregnant pigs space to turn around in their crates.
• End state laws that require imported livestock be tested for and free of tuberculosis.
• Nullify state or local laws that prohibit factory farms from being built around schools or drinking water sources.
• End local or state laws aimed at restricting pesticide drift.

http://www.rodalenews.com/farm-bill-2014?cm_mmc=Facebook-_-Rodale-_-Food-_-AnAmendmentinFarmBillCouldDestroyOurFoodSystem


...lawmakers appear to have reached an agreement on cuts to the food stamp program, which is part of the farm bill and had been the most contentious issue in efforts to pass the legislation.



http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/10/us/politics/farm-bill-talks-hit-snag-on-dairy-and-catfish-programs.html?hpw&rref=us&_r=0


The farm bill affects roughly 16 million agricultural sector jobs nationwide, but most of the measure’s costs are tied to food stamps to help poor families.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/farm-bill-talks-nearing-conclusion-with-little-concern-for-food-stamp-cuts/2014/01/08/26b5a2aa-786f-11e3-b1c5-739e63e9c9a7_story.html


...will not accept supply management on dairy (price setting?)
http://www.politico.com/story/2014/01/debbie-stabenow-farm-bill-101846.html


Small crops and changing dietary expectations put some crops in farm bill question?

http://www.politico.com//story/2013/12/specialty-crops-and-the-farm-bill-101446.html



Overall, whether you are interested in the SNAP benefits or your ability to speak up on GMO plantings or pesticide spraying in your area, you should be concerned.  This will be a multi-year farm bill and the bill will reflect your food safety, cost and more than likely choices, for this period.

If you don't like something, you'll want to talk with your representatives sooner rather than later.  Speak up for your desire for local animals that is humanely raised and crops that are safe today and in the future.