Rep. Messer Votes in Favor of 2018 Farm Bill

Press Release

U.S. Rep. Luke Messer (IN-06) voted in favor of the 2018 Farm Bill, which reauthorizes and reforms agriculture programs for the next five years.

The Agriculture & Nutrition Act of 2018, also known as the Farm Bill, reauthorizes crop insurance programs, rolls back burdensome regulations, and implements work requirements for nutrition assistance recipients.

Specifically, the bill reforms the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program, sometimes referred to as "food stamps," to require recipients to work 20 hours per week or enroll in job training. There are certain exceptions, including adults who aren't able-bodied and mothers with young children.

"Hoosier farmers are vital to Indiana's economy and this bill will help them to continue providing healthy and affordable food for all Americans," Messer said. "The bill also includes important reforms to help food stamp recipients find good-paying jobs and ultimately be less reliant upon government assistance."

The bill must now be passed by the Senate and then signed by President Trump before it can become law. The current farm bill is set to expire September 30th.

The agriculture industry contributes roughly $38 billion a year to Indiana's economy and supports nearly 190,000 jobs.

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