Ag Programs Could Gain Higher Funding in 2014

The FY 2014 Omnibus spending bill currently includes $350 million additional funding for agricultural programs compared to 2013. According to the House Appropriations Committee summary concerning agricultural appropriations "funding is prioritized to programs that support American farmers and ranchers, including agricultural production, promotion, research and marketing."  Specifically, significant funds have been allocated toward programs such as agricultural research, animal and plant health, the Farm Service Agency, rural development, the Food Safety & Inspection Service, conservation programs and food and nutrition programs.