NSP Past Chairman Carson Testifies to Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on “Producer Perspectives on the Farm Safety Net”
WASHINGTON, DC (May 2, 2023) – National Sorghum Producers Past Chairman Kody Carson, a sorghum farmer from Olton, Texas, testified today in front of the Senate Agriculture Committee Subcommittee on Commodities, Risk Management, and Trade during a hearing on “Producer Perspectives on the Farm Safety Net.”
Carson’s testimony highlighted the persistent drought impacting his farm on the Texas High Plains and other regions of the Sorghum Belt, underscoring the need for a stronger farm safety net.
“Right now, the farm safety net is not adequate. While the changes in the 2018 Farm Bill have been helpful, given the level and speed at which costs have increased, statutory PLC reference prices are now far too low to provide effective support in light of the many risks facing farmers in 2023,” Carson said in his testimony. “We continue to believe the sorghum reference price and marketing loan rates must be adjusted upward to remain relevant to U.S. sorghum farmers as we work to maintain productivity through extremely turbulent times.”
Carson also reaffirmed support for crop insurance, adding, “the tool has been absolutely critical in helping us manage the ongoing drought conditions decimating the Sorghum Belt.”
Read Carson’s written testimony at SorghumGrowers.com and watch the hearing here.
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NSP represents U.S. sorghum producers and serves as the voice of the sorghum industry coast to coast through legislative representation, regulatory representation and education. To learn more about NSP, visit www.sorghumgrowers.com.