With the current extension of the 2008 Farm Bill set to expire at midnight, most everyone involved in agriculture is waiting to see what Congress will do in the process of getting a new bill finalized. But obviously the big news on this last day of the month is a possible government shutdown. And if it does happen, there will be closures and various services will be impacted.
When it comes to agriculture, essential USDA workers like meat inspectors are expected to stay on the job, but key agencies like the Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service will have to shut offices.
So the possible government shutdown will obviously be the main topic of discussion today and other things, like the farm bill, will have to wait.