House passes Farm Bill
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives passed a new five-year Farm Bill, ending the two year impasse that had led to a number of stop-gap measures. Initial reports signal that the Farm Bill will be considered by the Senate early next week with a vote to follow shortly thereafter. Among other important priorities, the Farm Bill provides funding for "Rural Development" programs, including grants and loans to many rural health care providers. As part of the Campaign for Renewed Rural Development, NRHA is thankful to the House and Senate Agriculture Committees for their emphasis on, and funding of, Rural Development programs.