"However, as we know, USDA has a long history of race- and gender-based discrimination."
"OIG's findings show that, under the Trump Administration, USDA regressed in terms of the timeliness of its civil rights complaint processing."
"Connecticut's Fifth District is a hotbed of sustainable livestock farming."
"We have lost our farms and ranchers forever. They will not ever get an opportunity to come back."
"We need an equal playing field so that those of us that are using grazing practices can be rewarded by the consumers."
"opening statement"
"Title I subsidies, along with non-farm bill assistance programs, are a critical economic safety net for the farmers in my district that can access them."
"My district is a leader in climate-smart agriculture. Our producers run small, diversified farms and often use ecofriendly practices."
"Our farmers are passionate about the expansion of USDA conservation programs, and increasing access for small and beginning farmers."
"Last year, USDA announced that it would be investing $464 million into projects to build and improve renewable energy infrastructure and to help rural communities, agricultural producers, and business..."
"The 2023 Farm Bill will not be like any other farm bill. It will be a seminal historic piece of legislation."
"SNAP is a highly responsive program which serves as a stabilizer in times of economic downturn."