However, we need mechanisms that work, not mechanisms that simply add heavy-handed regulation to low-risk commodities.

As we consider this legislation, I will be evaluating this and any other proposal on three key principles: One, does the legislation make food safer? Two, does the legislation hold the regulator accountable? And three, does the legislation adequately account for geographic differences and weather differences in food production, as well as the diversity of the crops being grown?

I do have concerns about certain provisions in H.R. 2749, the Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009. It is important that Congress get it right.

We have an obligation to our children to address this problem, to set an example for the world.

climate change is real, and is a serious problem.

We need to make certain that we get the technology.

We are here to make something that actually works. My largest concern is that whatever we do needs to work for everyone.

We want to be part of the solution, as we already are. We want to get something done here.

I do really appreciate both of you being here. You are both incredibly important to the industry that drives my district in southern Minnesota.

The quality of life for our citizens in rural areas is just as important as the urban areas.

Climate change is real and it is a serious problem.