Agriculture

Reducing the barriers to international trade has been one of the major accomplishments of the 112^th Congress. While many are rightfully frustrated by the lack of bipartisanship, expanding access to trade remains an all-too-rare bright spot for cooperation.

When Congress returns to Washington after the election, we have a long list of items to address before the end of the year. One of the biggest priorities, especially for Nebraska producers, will be passing a responsible Farm Bill to prevent a lapse in policy. Congress also must act to prevent the largest tax hike in American history before the current rates expire on January 1, 2013.

For more than a year I have worked with agriculture groups, producers across Nebraska and my colleagues in Congress to pass a responsible long-term Farm Bill. Like many others, I am frustrated and disappointed by the failure to come to an agreement, and I believe both parties bear some responsibility for not getting a bill passed.

The House of Representatives returns from the August District Work Period this week with several items left to accomplish during the short amount of time before the November elections.

Congress has debated a new five-year Farm Bill for much of the last year, but despite some progress, we have yet to reach a final agreement. When Congress returns to Washington next month, I will continue working with my House colleagues from both parties to pass a responsible, long-term bill.