Agriculture represents a bright spot in the U.S. economy and is underpinning the nation’s economic recovery. Passing a five-year Farm Bill creates the certainty needed for farmers, ranchers and businessesthroughout a sector critical toour entire economy.
American agriculture supports 16 million American jobs.
Agriculture is one of the only sectors of the U.S. economy that boasts a trade surplus. This surplustotaled $38.5 billion in 2012.
Exports totaled $141.3 billionin 2012 – nearly triple the amount in the year 2000. Agricultural exports made up 10% of U.S. exports last year.
Every $1 billion in agricultural exports represents approximately 8,400 American jobs.
Agriculture supports jobs in rural and urban areas alike, creating not just farm but also equipment manufacturing, bio-based manufacturing, food and fiber processing, bio-energy production, retail, and many other forms of jobs in every corner of the country.
The 2014 Farm Bill continues building on the agriculture economy’s momentum. Passing a new Farm Bill will provide the certainty that producers need to continue innovating and producing the world’s safest, healthiest and most abundant food supply. The Farm Bill reduces the deficit by $23 billion dollars, while still increasing investment in successful jobs initiatives that strengthen: