Letter to the Editor: Partisan Farm Bill not good for Iowans

To the Editor:

Folks in rural Iowa are well aware of the enormous opportunity the Farm Bill represents for economic growth. Renewal of this traditionally bipartisan bill is a chance to make adjustments that can directly make or break Iowa’s family farms and, in turn, their communities. But the bill does more than that - it also reauthorizes SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps 1,406 Iowans in Allamakee County put food on their families’ tables.

Last week the U.S. House Agriculture Committee passed a partisan version of the Farm Bill, which is expected to reach the House floor in early May. It includes harsh cuts and other changes that would hurt the 360,000 Iowans who rely on SNAP to help make ends meet, including families with children, people with disabilities, older workers and people who are working or in between jobs.

Beyond that, these cuts could also end negotiations on the bill more broadly. In fact, the last time Congress took up the Farm Bill, partisan debate over SNAP stalled the legislation for nearly two years. This would come at a steep cost for Iowans, especially at a time of great trade uncertainty. Farmers, food producers and local retailers are among the most affected by policies included in the Farm Bill. Any delay could put them at greater risk.

Iowans can’t afford a partisan approach to the Farm Bill. I hope our Representatives will reject this version of the Farm bill and reaffirm a bipartisan commitment to prevent hunger, spur economic growth and strengthen our communities through SNAP.

Mary Nelle Trefz
Health Policy Associate
Child & Family Policy Center
Des Moines