Bobby Rush: “Mr. Chairman, I began this hearing with some very serious concerns about the status of our chairman, Fred Upton. Have…”

We on the Agriculture Committee have a special and unique mission to try to help solve the problem of Black farmers in our nation.

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

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.