Letter to Congress re: H.R. 3540, extension of Chapter 12 for one year (2003)
NBC letter to Representatives Baldwin and Smith expressing support for H.R. 3540, a bill to extend Chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code retroactively from January 1, 2004 through June 2005. The NBC affirms that Chapter 12 is essential for family farmers and continues to advocate for its permanent enactment while supporting this temporary extension.
- NBC supports H.R. 3540 extending Chapter 12 retroactively from January 1, 2004 through June 2005
- Chapter 12 has been extended nine to ten times since original enactment and is uniformly considered essential for family farmers
- NBC continues to press for permanent enactment of Chapter 12 rather than temporary extensions
September 28, 2004
Dear Rep. Baldwin and Rep. Smith:
On behalf of the National Bankruptcy Conference ("NBC"), I write to confirm our support for the bill you are introducing on Wednesday, September 29, 2004, to extend Chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code retroactively from January 1, 2004 through June 2005.
Since its original enactment, Chapter 12 has been extended nine ten times – because it is uniformly considered an essential support for our nation's family farmers. That is why the NBC continues to support the permanent enactment of Chapter 12. Notwithstanding this, the NBC supports another temporary retroactive extension so that this vital mechanism for resolving financial problems remains available to family farmers, as you and we continue to press for permanent status.
As you know, the NBC is a voluntary, non-profit, self-supporting, non-partisan group of fifty-eight judges, practicing lawyers and law professors that has been working with Congress on bankruptcy legislation since the Great Depression. Our conferees are all recognized experts in bankruptcy law and procedure who are committed to the improvement and integrity of the bankruptcy system. The NBC regularly consults with members of Congress and their staffs on policy issues and assists in drafting legislation; we also provide comprehensive written analyses and testimony regarding bankruptcy-related matters.
Sincerely,
Sally S. Neely
Chair, Committee on Legislation
National Bankruptcy Conference