Northeast South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor today, emphasizing the importance of agriculture in the United States. He highlighted that the appropriations process is now underway, with a focus on supporting American farmers and ranchers.

"Mr. President, agriculture is the lifeblood of our country," Thune stated. He acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers, including higher input costs, supply chain disruptions, and natural disasters.

Thune mentioned that recent legislative efforts aim to tackle these issues directly. "Just two weeks ago Republicans passed a reconciliation bill that addresses many of the challenges head-on by bolstering programs that farmers and ranchers depend on," he noted.

The agriculture appropriations bill was discussed as an example of continued support for this sector. The bill provides funding for several initiatives, such as capital access through the Farm Service Agency and tracking foreign-owned land purchases to protect American farmland.

Additionally, investments are made in rural development programs at USDA, which benefit areas like South Dakota by supporting water programs, electricity, and broadband in rural communities. Conservation efforts and market access improvements for agricultural products were also highlighted.

Thune praised efforts to combat threats like bird flu and chronic wasting disease while ensuring robust funding for nutrition programs like WIC.

In closing remarks, Thune expressed appreciation for the Appropriations Committee's work under Chair Collins and Senator Hoeven's leadership: "To America’s farmers and ranchers, we’ll continue to have your back."