After years of work, President Barack Obama signs the Agriculture Act of 2014 . The Farm Bill is now law.
While visiting Michigan State University today, President Obama praised the legislation as a rare example of Congressional bipartisanship. He added that it would not only help the people who grow our nation's food, but it would also help ensure that Americans who depend on food assistance don't go hungry.
Watch the video of President Barak Obama's remarks and the signing of the Agriculture Act of 2014 into law:
Photo: Historic Moment:
Earlier today:
President Barack Obama will arrive today to Michigan State University to sign the Farm Bill. The President's remarks will be available via live-stream at www.whitehouse.gov/live.
According to the Associated Press President Obama plans to announce the 'Made in Rural America' Initiative for exports (see below). Following his remarks, President Obama will sign the Agriculture Act of 2014 into law, according to a statement issued from the White House.
“This is an important piece of legislation for the country. It not only provides strong support for new research enterprises, but it also strengthens and grows Michigan’s agriculture economy and helps sustain America’s global competitiveness,” said MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. “As the pioneer land-grant institution in America, we are honored and pleased that President Obama will be signing the Farm Bill on MSU’s campus. I would like to recognize the leadership of Sen. Debbie Stabenow and the Michigan congressional delegation for their hard work in passing this legislation.”
If you cannot see the photos below, you can view them here: http://storify.com/FarmsNews/president-obama-arrives-in-michigan-for-farm-bill
Obama plans to announce the "Made in Rural America" initiative Friday at Michigan State University. The president is visiting the school to sign into law a sweeping farm bill that sets policy for agricultural programs and food stamps.
He's coupling the signing of the nearly $1 billion-a-year legislation with the announcement of the new administration program to connect rural businesses with federal resources that can help sell their products and services abroad. The program's creation comes as U.S. farmers are sending more products overseas — a record $140.9 billion in the last fiscal year — but U.S. officials say additional opportunities exist overseas for farmers and other rural business owners.
According to a draft of his plan obtained by The Associated Press, Obama plans to direct federal agencies to take several steps in the next nine months toward that goal. They include hosting five regional forums for rural businesses, training Agriculture Department staff in all 50 states to advise on export opportunities, and putting on a national conference to highlight successful projects.
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/obama-launching-program-boost-rural-exports