Sanford Bishop: “This amendment would prohibit USDA from implementing an executive order on tackling the climate crisis. This year, our…”

“This amendment would prohibit USDA from implementing an executive order on tackling the climate crisis. This year, our country has experienced more billion-dollar climate disasters than ever before in our history. In only the first 8 months of the year, 23 weather disasters devastated regions across the country, and in every case, the agricultural sector was harmed. This summer, we witnessed catastrophic floods in the Northeast decimate farmers' crops. Extreme drought in the West continues to impact ranchers' ability to sustain their livestock. Tragically, we watched helplessly as the Maui wildfires ravaged thousands of acres of farmland and took nearly 100 human lives. This amendment would block Federal efforts to help farmers develop climate-smart agricultural and forestry practices that are critical to combating the climate crisis. If we are to address the climate crisis, help farmers, and strengthen our economy, we cannot be hamstrung by funding limitations that deny that climate change is real. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Illinois (Mrs. Miller). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the ayes appeared to have it.”