That is a more complex question than most realize. Here are some possibilities:
- Some farm-state lawmakers want to put most if not all of a new farm bill in a budget reconciliation measure. Problems: Will House and Senate Republicans agree on a plan? If so, will GOP leaders want to put another major bill into an already hard-to-get reconciliation measure that includes key Trump agenda items? Will GOP House and Senate Ag Committee leaders demand the farm bill be part of any reconciliation measure to get their votes?
- Stand-alone farm bill. While a solo farm bill could possibly pass the Senate, the fate in the House is unclear. Reason: Some 60 or more House Republicans could vote against the measure based on history. That means votes from Democrats would be needed. But getting Democrats to vote for a farm bill will largely be based on how Republicans alter the SNAP/food stamp program. If it takes the House approach, Democrats will not go along; they could go along with a more moderate GOP Senate approach.
- If the 2018 Farm Bill is extended again, another ad hoc ag economic aid package will be pushed.
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