After a what seemed to be a never-ending labor process, Congress has finally delivered a new farm bill – well past its 2012 due date. Everyone has something to say about the overdue bill, so we’ll take the releases in the order they came.

First to pass out cigars is the American Soybean Association (ASA). “We are relieved and pleased to see the farm bill cross the finish line this afternoon,” said ASA President and Iowa farmer Ray Gaesser.

National Farmers Union was next in the in box. “Passage of the bill on a wide 68-32 margin is a testament to the importance of the legislation to every region of the country,” said NFU President Roger Johnson.

Another admirer is the National Cotton Council. “Congress has demonstrated strong bi-partisanship and we urge President Obama to sign this long-awaited bill into law,” said chairman Jimmy Dodson.

From the National Corn Growers Association – “We’re happy to see the farm bill pass the Senate and are looking forward to seeing it signed and implemented,” said NCGA President Martin Barbre. “While it’s not perfect, we’re pleased to see the bill contains many provisions we’ve been working hard for over the years.”

American Farm Bureau Federation president Bob Stallman added his congratulations. “We are particularly pleased with provisions in the 2014 farm bill to provide risk management to fruit and vegetable farmers and to support livestock farmers during disasters,” he said.

And, from the man who will be charged with raising the little tyke, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack says the bill will achieve “meaningful reform and billions of dollars in savings for the taxpayer. While no legislation is perfect, this bill is a strong investment in American agriculture and supports the continued global leadership of our farmers and ranchers.”

During a press call today on a separate topic, Vilsack was asked what USDA will do first when the farm bill is finalized. Listen to or download his comments here: Vilsack on Farm Bill Implementation