Senate passes farm bill

WASHINGTON — The Senate on Tuesday passed the compromise farm bill that was passed last week by the House, sending the legislation to the White House for President Barack Obama’s signature.

Both of Georgia’s senators — Saxby Chambliss, R-Moultrie, and Johnny Isakson, R-Marietta — supported the legislation, which passed the Upper Chamber by a 68-32 vote. Last week, the bill was approved by the House by a 251-166 vote.

“I am pleased to support the 2014 Farm Bill which reforms critical farm programs, strengthens the nation’s food security, protects the livelihood of our farmers and ranchers, and preserves our efforts to remain good stewards of the environment,” Chambliss said Tuesday afternoon. “This bill embodies the promise of reform while achieving savings to contribute to lowering our debt and deficit. I am truly pleased with the options this bill offers to protect producers in times of need, while supporting our nation’s long-term economic and food security.