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What does Tom Vilsack think will be needed in order for a new farm bill to be passed? (Gary Crawford and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack)

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the clock is ticking on the crafting and passage of a new farm bill.

USDA recently announced some specialty crop and organic growers will have expanded crop insurance options available starting in the 2025 crop year. (Rod Bain and Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger)

Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger explains expanding crop insurance options for specialty crop and organic producers starting in the 2025 crop year.

Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger explains the need to announce new and expanded crop insurance products well before the upcoming crop year.

Some crop production areas are reporting drought coverage on the rise since mid-June, as reflected in the latest U.S. Drought Monitor commodities in drought outlook. (Rod Bain and USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey notes the July 2nd U.S. Drought Monitor regarding crops like spring wheat, and commodities such as hay and cattle in drought.

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey talks about recent drought coverage percentages for Southern crops such as cotton, peanuts, and rice.

* - STATIONS: Please do not air this story after 9 AM EDT Saturday - * Storm surge and related safety concerns for the Carolinas and areas inland in the path of Hurricane Ian continue to rise. (Rod Bain and National Weather Service Director Ken Graham)

Federal and state emergency personnel and others are in the middle of recovery operations in Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. (Rod Bain and Federal Emergency Management Administration Associate Administrator Anne Bink)