I represent 35 counties in Kentucky, 35 rural counties, and there are six Congressional districts in Kentucky.

I worry because there is lots of talk... looking at SNAP as a place to basically try to find money to pay for other priorities; essentially, using it as an ATM machine, and that would be a mistake.

I look forward to working with the House to advance policies that continue to grow on that and bring industrial hemp forward as a legal, viable commodity.

Although the Commission was established with the unanimous support of the House in 2008 and has been renewed by every Congress since then, no funds have been specifically designated or appropriated for the Commission's operation.

the Commission has been responsible for inspiring legislative initiatives, such as the Magnitsky Act and the Global Magnitsky Act.

What amazes me about the hearings by the Commission is that they are always well attended.

We have established this commission, it has been bipartisan, it has worked.

it means that their lives are spared, that they can actually operate as human rights defenders in countries and not have to worry as much about being jailed or imprisoned.

I would like to thank Ranking Member Ryan for his service on the committee and the rest of the subcommittee members for all their work to help put together the Legislative Appropriations Subcommittee bill.

Part of what we hope to achieve is a greater awareness and understanding of the importance of human rights in our foreign policy.

We are here to request that language be added to the fiscal year 2018 legislative branch appropriations bill to provide $230,000 for salaries and expenses for professional staff for the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission.

SNAP is essential in protecting the most vulnerable citizens during tough times. For many it is a vital lifeline to keeping food on the table.

Farm Credit is leaning into this downturn in ag prices.

We are grateful for the opportunity to testify today, and grateful for this Committee's support for Farm Credit.

submitted letter on behalf of Ben Burkett, Board President; Lisa Griffith, Acting Executive Director, National Family Farm Coalition

Thank you for convening a hearing into the vital issues facing American dairy farmers today.

I want to add my voice in support of our global food security and nutrition programs.

I strongly encourage the Committee to talk to their Budget Committee colleagues and to fight for robust funding for the 150 account in the fiscal year 2018 budget resolution.

we cannot turn our back on those in desperate need.

It is our moral responsibility to urge you to support and protect the International Affairs Budget

America must remain that 'shining city on a hill' that 'brings hope to poor, hungry, [and] vulnerable.'

I am disappointed by the continued flat funding of the nutrition sub-account under the Global Health Program.

I ask the committee to support a minimum of $5 million for the Wounded Warriors service dog grant program.

So rather than relegating these veterans to a waiting list, let's continue to support these highly technical nonprofits so that they can continue to do what they do best: Help our veterans.

We must ensure that they have access to treatments that work.