The U.S. Ag Secretary says he’s optimistic about at least one farm bill proposal.

At an event on the Mississippi River last week, Tom Vilsack told Brownfield Senator Debbie Stabenow’s 94-page Senate framework is realistic.

“I think it’s very comprehensive.”  He says, “I think it’s well thought out. I think it’s a practical approach. I mean, we’re living in a constrained environment. It has to be doable. It has to be affordable and I think she has been able to do that.”

He says while practical, the Senate majority’s proposal includes some highly requested updates for farm programs, such as conservation and trade promotion.

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