As I’ve written recently here on the ONE blog, the Farm Bill working its way through Congress contains subsidies directed to big business farms that stifle competition from smaller farms. Some members of Congress would like the public to believe that these subsidies are designed to help American farmers. In reality, the vast majority of farmers are hurt by these subsidies. These subsidies allow the biggest 8% of farms to lower prices on their goods, leaving small American farmers – not to mention impoverished farmers in the developing world – struggling to compete. Take some time to read about the Farm Bill and why it needs to be reformed.

We know that many of our ONE members have already helped spread awareness of the need for Farm Bill reform by writing thousands of letters to their local papers all across the country. This effort has not gone unnoticed. Not only have numerous letters appeared in newspapers across the country - including sizable publications like the Chicago Tribune – but a proposed Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment to the Farm Bill would provide many of those desperately needed changes, like putting a cap on the subsidies large farms receive. This provides us with a great opportunity to take desperately needed action.

Right now the bill is leaving the Agricultural Committee, and soon it will be presented to the full House of Representatives. Before they make their decision, let’s pull together as ONE to show them what voters really think about legislation that prevents small farmers the world over from competing fairly.

Take this opportunity to send a letter to your member of Congress to let them know you support the Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment!