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Local Congressman Says Ag a Bright Spot for National Economy
A local congressman responsible for bringing one of four national farm hearings to Galesburg says agriculture is providing relief to a struggling national economy.

17th District Congressman Bobby Schilling said at Friday's 2012 Farm Bill Field Hearing that agricultural exports were the highest ever at over $136 billion dollars last year.

Schilling, a member of the sponsoring House Ag Committee, says that equates to a massive portion of our country's workforce.

"According to the USDA, for every one billion (dollars) in ag exports, it provides for 8400 related jobs for men and women here across America," Schilling said. "That is why it's so important that our next farm bill continues to let producers to do what they do best."

"At a time when rural populations are looking fo new ways to grow our communities, our voice must be stronger than ever, and I believe this committee is up to the task."

Like the current Food, Conversation, and Energy Act, Schilling says the 2012 Farm Bill must be five years in length to give certainty to farmers. He says too it must provide strong crop insurance.

The 2008 bill expires September 30th, and funds $284 billion dollars to farmers.
03 24 12 by Newsroom
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