Senate blocks $286 billion farm bill, likely stalling it until next year

WASHINGTON — The Senate blocked a $286 billion farm bill Friday, a blow to farm-state lawmakers, who wanted to give their constituents expanded subsidies before next year's elections.

Though politically popular, the bill stalled in a dispute between the parties over unrelated amendments that Republicans wanted to add. Democrats failed to get the 60 votes they needed to cut off debate on the measure. The final vote was 55-42.

The vote could push consideration of the legislation into 2008 or beyond. Senate Agriculture Chairman Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, said Thursday that the bill may fare better after next year's elections, with a new Congress and a new president.

The Bush administration has issued a veto threat against the bill, saying it is too expensive and would pay wealthy farmers too much.

Farm state Democrats headed home for the Thanksgiving recess are preparing to blame Republicans for slowing down the legislation. Some Republicans wanted to offer amendments dealing with the alternative minimum tax, immigration and other nonagricultural issues.

Republicans blamed Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., for attempting to limit the amendments.

The five-year bill would extend the 2002 law that governs farm subsidies, rural development, programs to protect environmentally sensitive farm land and nutrition programs, including food stamps. These programs are operating under a temporary extension now.

The House passed their version of the legislation in July.