Political Quotes

“this amendment simply strikes $20 million annually in mandatory funds from the Farmers Market Promotion Program. The program will still retain its authorization for annual appropriations at $20 million per year. I understand the important role that farmers markets play in connecting consumers with the farmers who grow their food. However, this is a grant program that should be funded with discretionary appropriations. We can't give every program in the farm bill mandatory money at a time of fiscal crisis. The number of farmers markets in the United States has grown exponentially over the last 5 years. The Agriculture Marketing Service reports that in mid-2011, there were 7,175 farmers markets in the United States. This was a 17-percent increase over 2010. This amendment will save the government $200 million over the next 10 years while still allowing the program to retain its integrity. I ask for consideration and for an affirmative vote.”