Iowa Senator Charles Grassley is asking Senate Ag Committee leaders to hold a field hearing on the 2012 Farm Bill in Iowa. He says Iowans should be allowed to weigh in on the legislation since so many in the state rely on agriculture for a living.
Grassley notes that Iowa agriculture also supports thousands of non-farm jobs. “Just think of John Deere, as an example, or meat processing is another,” Grassley said. Iowa is the country’s top producer of corn, soybeans, pork and eggs.
“It’s important for one of the largest agriculture producing states in the country to have an opportunity to host a hearing and showcase not only our own agriculture, but all Iowans impacted by the important legislation,” Grassley said. The legislation set various farm policies and covers areas of rural development, food and nutrition, ag research, conservation and energy.