FARGO (AP) - The approval of a farm bill by the U.S. House of Representatives is a victory for family farmers and ranchers in North Dakota, Rep. Earl Pomeroy said. Other public officials and farm leaders agreed.

"We've got a bill here that begins the reform process," said Pomeroy, D-N.D. "It needs more work in the Senate and House, but this is a big win for farmers in our area."

Republican Gov. John Hoeven said the bill has several highlights, including a safety net for farmers during bad years and a supplemental crop insurance program. But he said the bill needs a permanent disaster provision.

Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson said the new bill is a "substantial improvement" over current legislation.