NCC Reviewing House Ag Committee Language

The National Cotton Council is reviewing details of the preliminary legislative language released by the House Committee on Agriculture. The language serves as the base text for the markup of the commodity title scheduled for June 19. Previously, the NCC provided a comprehensive set of recommendations to Congress regarding the structure and operation of the cotton program. We note that many of the recommendations are included in the draft language. However, the NCC is very concerned about provisions that would significantly reduce benefits as a result of reductions in limitations and by provisions that would reduce the loan rate and target price. The proposals combine to reduce the safety net for cotton producers.

The NCC will continue to work with the Chairman and members of the Committee throughout the process of developing the comprehensive farm legislation. The NCC remains guided by the cotton industry’s priorities that include: a cotton policy that provides a sound safety net for producers; a program that ensures efficient flow of cotton from field to market; and provisions that enhance competitiveness in all markets. The NCC will work for a farm program that provides balanced and equitable adjustments to current provisions.