At least I'm consistent...

The one idea for farm bill reform I had thought least likely to survive seems to be the one most in play. Given my keen political instincts and personal record (0-for-4 in contested elections), I should have seen this not coming. Or something like that.

Anyhoo, the idea of real payment limits suddenly has leapt to the forefront as "proof" of sincere reform.

Some specifics:

• The limit for DCP's would be umm... raised to $60,000 (What the heck?)
  
• The limit for CCP's would stay at $65,000
• The limit in MLG's would be ...eliminated. (OK - I get the joke)
  

This is tightening payment limits? Am I missing something here? [Read for yourself]

Oh, we are going to take stern action with a handful of millionaires.

All seriousness aside, the idea of any payment limitation language at all is a surprise to me, and perhaps an open invitation for floor amendments - they wouldn't have to change the language, just tweak the numbers. Meanwhile the Senate may have some ideas of their own.

Grassley has been working with Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., on an effort to institute payment limitations in farm commodity programs.
"We believe that if the House would include the Grassley-Dorgan payment limit language in their version of the farm bill, it would save close to $700 million," said Grassley. "With the Senate and House trying to find offsets this year, this seems to be a very good step in the right direction, considering the need to find offsets for spending. Our payment limit legislation would not only help find extra money, but it is real reform in the farm program as well." [More]

It cannot be easy trying to make foolproof plans to provide for every little problem on my farm all the way from Washington. It's amazing how much effort they are putting into it. And how little it may matter in the long run.