WASHINGTON — The Senate Agriculture Committee has postponed further action on a new Farm Bill after lawmakers failed to reach a bipartisan agreement over key provisions, including proposed changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The committee rejected the Republican Farm Bill proposal Thursday on a 10-11 vote, leaving lawmakers without a clear path forward on the legislation.
The primary disagreement centered on SNAP and when states would begin sharing a portion of the cost of providing benefits.
Democrats sought a two-year delay before the state cost-sharing requirement would take effect, while Republicans proposed delaying implementation for one year. The two sides were unable to reach a compromise before the committee vote.
Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman recessed the markup following the failed vote. Boozman said negotiations would continue, leaving open the possibility that the committee could reconvene later this year to consider another version of the legislation.
Despite the broader disagreement, committee members approved several amendments during the markup.
One provision would move administration of the Food for Peace international food assistance program to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another approved amendment would allow SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase hot rotisserie chicken.
The Farm Bill is a sweeping package of legislation typically renewed about every five years and covers programs affecting farmers, ranchers and consumers. Its provisions include commodity programs, crop insurance, conservation, agricultural research, rural development and nutrition assistance.
SNAP traditionally represents one of the largest portions of Farm Bill spending and has frequently been a major point of disagreement during negotiations.
The committee's decision to postpone action means negotiations will continue as lawmakers seek enough bipartisan support to advance a Farm Bill through the Senate.
No new date has been announced for the Senate Agriculture Committee to resume consideration of the legislation.