Goodlatte statement on the House Farm Bill vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on H.R. 2, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act, or the Farm Bill. Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) released the following statement after voting in support of the Agriculture and Nutrition Act, which failed to receive enough votes to pass the House:

“I am extremely disappointed that the House could not come together today and pass the most important piece of legislation impacting the agricultural community. The Farm Bill sets our country’s farm policy for the next several years and reinforces our country’s commitment to farmers and ranchers from coast to coast, including in Virginia’s Sixth District. It supports rural communities who need increased access to broadband technology, and strengthens the investment in locally-led, voluntary conservation efforts.

“Most upsettingly, this bill was an opportunity to change people’s lives. The Agriculture and Nutrition Act took significant steps to improve the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other anti-hunger programs and ensure those who need help the most are receiving the benefits. The bill makes major investments in workforce training and development to lift able-bodied Americans up and out of poverty and help SNAP recipients find employment to bring financial stability to their lives. I was proud to support this bill as a member of the House Agriculture Committee and today before the full House of Representatives. The Farm Bill must be passed before September 30, and I urge my colleagues in the House to come back to the table and pass a reform-minded bill as quickly as possible. We cannot delay.”