Johnson Votes for Farm Bill, Thune Votes Against

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - South Dakota's U.S. senators have different takes on the farm bill the Senate has passed.

Democrat Tim Johnson supports it, saying it'll ensure the continued integrity of farm programs, reduce the budget deficit and support the millions of jobs that rely on agriculture.

Republic John Thune says the Senate missed an opportunity to improve federal agriculture policy. He says the Senate bill reauthorizes an outdated program, and fails to rein in redundancy and waste.

The five-year, half-trillion-dollar farm bill passed by the Senate on Monday expands government subsidies for crop insurance, rice and peanuts while making small cuts to food stamps. It also eliminates subsidies that are paid to farmers whether they farm or not.

The House is to take up its version of the farm bill later this month.

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