Minnesota Sen. Al Franken recently held a town hall meeting with local farmers and ranchers to discuss the 2013 Farm Bill and hear the fears and concerns of Minnesota agricultural workers.

Despite protracted congressional debate and negotiations last year, the 2012 Farm Bill failed in Congress, with the GOP leadership in the House of Representatives refusing to hold a floor vote on the vital agricultural legislation. In the wake of the bill’s failure, farmers across the country have lobbied their representatives, insisting that the lack of a new five-year farm bill could hurt their bottom line.

Franken’s meeting focused on listening to farmers express their concerns about the lack of a new farm bill, stating that the uncertainty they face without a five-year farm bill will make it difficult to plan for the future.

In addition, Franken used the opportunity to get to understand Minnesota farmers. “I’m very moved by how hard our farmers work and all the things our farmers do,” Franken said. “Growing up, I knew absolutely nothing about farming. That’s really why I’m here. I want to hear from you.”

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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer