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would then be simpler to administer and participation would be encouraged. 

 The program must be flexible to provide producers an opportunity to develop a 

 program that meets specific needs. The program should be available to 

 producers of all agricultural commodities. Participation must be voluntary." 



This is not the first time Farm Bureau has approached Congress over revamping our 

 nation's risk management program for farmers. We understand that what is outlined here are 

 broad goals. However, we are willing to work with Congress to provide needed specifics to 

 reinvent crop insurance and disaster assistance. 



We are hopeful that the disasters of the past several years will encourage everyone in 

 agriculture to work towards revamping how crop losses are resolved. The very nature of 

 farming, with its dependence on weather, heightens the need for change. Farmers want a 

 program they can trust and rely upon when circumstances beyond their control affect their 

 ability to produce a crop. 



Thank you for the opportunity to comment. 



