WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the Senate passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, Sister Simone Campbell, SSS, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice issued the following statement:

“We rejoice at the passage of the Senate’s Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. The overwhelming margin of support demonstrates the resounding bipartisanship that meets the needs of both the agriculture community and people experiencing food insecurity. I applaud the leadership of Senator Roberts and Senator Stabenow.

“In the current political climate, it is encouraging to see that bipartisanship and regular order remains possible. Our lawmakers can still produce positive legislation that promotes the common good.

“The Senate bill is a Farm Bill that makes sense. It supports our rural communities, allows our farmers to plan for uncertainties, and helps struggling Americans avoid going hungry during difficult times. The Senate bill provides stability and certainty in tumultuous times. It lays a solid foundation for the future, and should be adopted by conference.

“Meanwhile, the controversial, sweeping changes to food security in the partisan House bill only sow further doubt that the legislative branch can do its job. The House bill threatens the well-being of the most vulnerable Americans.  It is time for House leadership to recognize how their partisan approach hurts our nation.

“As Congress moves toward conference, we urge House legislators to follow the Senate’s example in process and in substance. We urge Senate leadership to hold strong to their commitment to a balanced bill that avoids undermining our social safety net for vulnerable people.

“The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is one of our nation’s most effective anti-poverty, anti-hunger programs, and Congress must protect it.”