Johanns Statement on Severe Weather Damage in Nebraska

 

WASHINGTON —U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.), today issued the following statement on the impact of last week’s severe weather in Nebraska:
“My thoughts and prayers continue to be with those affected by last week’s severe weather in Nebraska, from those working to clean up tornado damage in the Northeast to Panhandle producers experiencing significant cattle loss from an early snowstorm,” Johanns said. “Though Nebraskans are not strangers to adverse weather conditions, no amount of preparation can fully protect people and property when mother nature strikes. But as with any disaster, I’m confident in our ability to bounce back stronger than ever.
“I’m also concerned about reports of significant cattle loss among ranchers. Although important livestock programs expired last week, I’m hopeful they’ll be restored through the farm bill and I encourage producers who experienced cattle loss to maintain good record and document their losses. Both the Senate and House-passed farm bills authorize these critical programs, which is yet another reason it’s important to move swiftly to finalize a bill in conference and get it to the President for signature.”
The Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) and other livestock programs are designed to help producers manage risk and shield them from the effects of significant loss. Both the Senate and House-passed versions of the farm bill include provisions to reauthorize and fund these programs. Last week, the Senate named farm bill conferees tasked with working with House conferees in merging the two bills into one piece of legislation. It must then be passed by both chambers and signed by the President.