U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN) introduced bipartisan legislation concerning comprehensive emergency disaster assistance for weather-related losses and increased energy costs for 2005. The National Farmers Union says, "The fact disaster assistance has bipartisan support in both the House and Senate shows this is a serious concern that needs to be addressed to help farmers and ranchers deal with circumstances beyond their control." The legislation is similar to the disaster assistance legislation passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee earlier this month. There are 25 co-sponsors of the House legislation. -- P. Scott Shearer, Washington, D.C., correspondent