Political Quotes

“Madam Chair, I rise today in support of an amendment that I was pleased to coauthor with my colleague, Representative Costello from Pennsylvania. {time} 1000 Our amendment directs the Secretary of Agriculture to designate a beginning farmer and rancher coordinator in each of the 50 States at no cost to the taxpayer. According to the 2017 National Young Farmers survey, a lack of familiarity with Federal programs was among the top reasons young farmers don't access those programs. At a time when there are six times as many farmers over the age of 65 as there are under the age of 35, now more than ever, we need to help grow the next generation of farmers. Minnesotans who farm have made our State a top producer for sugar, beets, and turkeys. Meanwhile, in my colleague's home State of Pennsylvania, dairy and mushrooms top the list. Each State is different, and so are the challenges facing their farmers. Having a State-specific coordinator will ensure outreach efforts that are tailored to every State's need. The Costello amendment is supported by the National Young Farmers Coalition as well. I thank the chairman for his work on the farm bill and his support of this amendment, and urge my colleagues to do the same. Support America's young farmers by supporting this amendment.”