Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) intends to propose a $5 billion package of farmer assistance as an amendment to the supplemental appropriations bill.  Dairy, cotton, pork and other livestock producers would share in the assistance.  Harkin and Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND) offered but then withdrew the proposal Tuesday, and might try again today.

His package includes $1.5 billion in additional disaster assistance and $2.8 billion in income support made available through the freedom to farm payments.  The rest of the package is in assistance to dairy, cotton and livestock producers.

"Farmers across the country are struggling to survive," said Harkin.  "The freedom to farm bill has failed.  These funds are necessary to help keep farmers and rural communities from going under in this deepening farm crisis."

Several farm organizations have lined up behind Harkin's effort.  He says he will work with the farm groups to craft "the best possible package of assistance to farmers."

For its part, the American Soybean Association wants the $2.8 billion for additional income support payments to farmers but also language that directs USDA to implement a $1 billion concessional sales and donations program for soybeans and soybean products.

ASA and the National Oilseed Processors Association provided USDA with a list of countries that could import specific quantities of soybeans and soy products valued at $1 billion without displacing commercial sales.

"Since soybeans are not included in the formula for determining (freedom to farm) payments, it will be necessary to provide equitable support for soybean producers," said Mike Yost, ASA president.