Farm Policy

Does U.S. farm policy promote unhealthy eating?

Introduction

Congress is debating a new farm bill, a sprawling measure typically enacted every five to seven years that sets broad directions for U.S. agriculture policy. Current proposals would eliminate some hotly debated subsidies that mainly benefit large farmers. But the proposed bills would still provide nearly $1 trillion over the next decade for programs including crop insurance, land and water conservation programs, disaster relief and food aid for the poor. Conservatives say the federal government spends too much on agriculture and advocate major cuts to food aid programs, which they see as runaway entitlements. Liberals oppose cutting food aid, which they say provides crucial help for needy Americans during a slow economic recovery. And many public health advocates want more support for production of healthy ...

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