The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“TRADE ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H7692 on July 26, 2018.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
TRADE ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS
(Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and ask my colleagues to join me in supporting my bill, H.R. 6483, the Trade Assistance for Farmers Act.
As a member of the House Agriculture Committee and a proud representative of Delaware, where 99 percent of our farms are family owned and 1 in 4 acres are permanently preserved for farmland, we have seen firsthand the impact of retaliatory tariffs.
Over the past 60 days, soybean and corn farmers across the country have suffered over $13 billion in losses, and, according to the Delaware Department of Agriculture, our soybean and corn farmers have lost $28 million.
Delaware is a microcosm of the country, with beautiful beaches, thriving cities, and sprawling farms. We know how important agriculture is to our country and our communities.
My bill would create a permanent fix so that all farmers impacted by retaliatory tariffs can have the tools they need to stay competitive, regardless of who is in the White House.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support my bill.
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