DECATUR, IL… In response to the United States Department of Agriculture making $12 billion available in one-time bridge payments to American farmers due to temporary trade market disruptions, State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) issued the following statement:
“I am grateful to President Trump for stepping in to support America’s farmers during a difficult time. For many farm families in Central Illinois, this assistance provides real relief and stability when it is needed most.
“But that doesn’t solve our problems in the long-term. In order to provide the strongest future for agriculture, we need to open new domestic and international markets so farmers can sell what they grow, earn a fair return, and continue feeding this country and the world.
“Illinois farmers do not want to be permanently dependent on Washington. They want opportunity. That is why I have called for policy that puts American agriculture first and aggressively opens new markets for our producers.
“I have also proposed moving the Department of Agriculture to Central Illinois, closer to the farmers and rural communities it serves. My resolution, HR 177, would bring agriculture decision-making out of the swamp in Washington D.C. and into the heart of farm country.
“If American farmers are going to remain the backbone of the American economy, we must focus on solutions that grow markets, reward hard work, and strengthen rural communities for the long haul.”