On the recordJune 19, 2013
I would just like to say one more time that this is a vital program. Let me again reinforce the good words of my colleague and thank him for speaking on the other side of the aisle in support of this program. This helps communities through direct marketing. This helps roadside stands, farmers markets, CSA, agritourism, other direct producer-to- consumer marketing opportunities. It's a competitive grant. It's not a boondoggle. It's not direct payments to a farmer. And once again, I just want to say, I come from the State of Maine, which like many States is full of rural communities, rural communities who are seeing this renewed interest in buying food locally--a great way to expand this economy, to provide jobs, to get more money into our rural economies, to make sure people are eating healthier food, getting to know their farmers in their communities, making better, healthier decisions. I strongly oppose this amendment, and I urge my colleagues to do so. I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman from California has 2\1/4\ minutes remaining. Mr. McCLINTOCK. Mr. Chairman, I begin by asking the supporters to answer three simple questions: Why should a taxpayer in one community pay to advertise produce for a farmer in another community? I heard no answer. {time} 2140 I asked why should a shopkeeper in one community who has to pay for his own advertising also pay for the local farmer's advertising as well. I heard no answer.…
