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AFBF wants return of congressional earmarks

The American Farm Bureau federation has adopted policy in support of congressional earmarks for special projects. It was policy adopted and offered up at the annual meeting by the Illinois Farm Bureau.

“And, you know, those were taken away back in 2011 but they have really worked well with different congressional leaders. They have an opportunity to get money back into their local farming – in their local communities,” says Illinois Farm Bureau president Richard Guebert.

A hearing of the House Rules committee this week showed support on both sides of the aisle for returning earmarks but House speaker Paul Ryan is opposed to ending the 2011 ban. House minority leader, Nancy Pelosi, reportedly supports them on a limited basis with transparency requirements.