Bobby Rush: “It is clear, in my opinion, that rural America is in the same boat as too often left behind by our recovery efforts.”

I am continually concerned about the impact of any new costs on our nation's farmers and, specifically, the energy costs as it relates to minority farmers and consumers.

I am extremely interested in member cooperatives, and I am looking forward to ways to expand ag co-ops to urban areas.

I urge the members of this Select Committee to co-sponsor this important legislation and hope to see it passed before the end of the 117th Congress.

I certainly want to thank you, Mr. Chairman. This has been a very, very informative hearing, and I thank you for it.