The current Farm Bill (2008-2012) expired on Sept. 30, 2012.

 

But after a few months of uncertainty, House and Senate leaders  worked out a simple extension of the old farm bill until Sept. 30th of this year.

 

The current timeline for the Farm Bill is as follows:

 

Mid-May -- Agriculture committees in both the Senate and House complete their versions of the Farm Bill.

 

Late May -- The full Senate takes up the Farm Bill; amendments are submitted, debated and voted on.

 

Early June -- The full Senate makes a final vote on their version of the Farm Bill.

 

Mid to late June -- The full House takes up the Farm Bill.

 

July -- The House makes a final vote on their version of the Farm Bill.

 

August -- The respective bills go into conference committee to resolve differences in programs and budgert numbers.

 

September -- After Congress returns from their August recesss (after Labor Day), the Senate and House vote on the revised bill and authorize a new Farm Bill.

 

By Sept. 30, 2013 -- President Obama signs a new five-year Farm Bill into law.