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Abstract
This paper reports the results of a study of the economic content and the decision-making
process of the recently adopted U.S. 1990 agricultural and food policy. It is the most
comprehensive policy of its type. It represents the broadest participation of private individuals
and interests groups, and will affect the economy of not only the United States, but also
the economies of trading countries around the world.
The study examines the economic conditions leading up to the policy, a theoretical
foundation of public policy determinants, the role of economic analysis in that policy
development, the provisions of the Act compared with the previous policy, and its extensive
economic implications. Results of the study support features of a conceptual framework for
economic policy of a participatory government. The study also reveals the unique policy
process of the United States and the provisions of its price and income policy for the food
and agricultural sector.
Finally, this article identifies the interrelations between the 1990 policy and on-going
GATT negotiations, the emerging importance of environmental and food quality issues in
agricultural and food policy, and sources for further study of this Act.