We will also forward additional questions for the record, and we appreciate your diligence in getting your responses to us in a timely manner.

Well, it is important that we monitor that closely, because we want to make sure that those dollars go to the small and disadvantaged businesses as they were intended to.

We have to do everything that we can possibly do to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse and mismanagement.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

The key to it is a real robust investment in broadband and the internet because connectivity is going to mean everything for quality of life in rural communities.

The proposed language would require USDA to measure the cost of the Thrifty Food Plan in Puerto Rico.

I truly hope the Secretary will reconsider this proposal and keep NIFA and ERS in the area where I think they can do a better job.

We just had the longest shutdown in history during which food inspectors were working without pay.

It would be irresponsible for us not to have a hearing on this proposal because it has far-reaching implications.

This is not about ERS and NIFA. A constituent of mine whom I believe you know must be dealing with one of the more interesting and bizarre Livestock Indemnity Program cases in history.

Taken together, all of this is very, very concerning.

I am glad to see that you will devote some of your 2019 resources to that issue.