Political Quotes

“I rise in support for H.R. 3232, which would extend the authorization for the expiring portions of child nutrition legislation for an additional six months. This bill, which was introduced by my colleague Mr. Castle, is also cosponsored by the Ranking Member of the Committee, Mr. Miller, and Ms. Woolsey, Ranking Member on the Education Reform Subcommittee. I thank all of them for their support. The Child Nutrition programs include the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs; the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (or WIC); the Child and Adult Care Food Program; the After School Snack Program; and the Summer Food Service Program. These invaluable programs--which are responsible for providing nutritious meals to millions of children and adults every day--are due for reauthorization this year. In order to ensure that the Committee has the opportunity to consider the reauthorization process carefully, we are seeking to extend the current authorization an additional six months. This bill contains one provision of particular importance to our nation's soldiers, sailors and airmen. If this legislation is not approved, the children of Armed Forces members who live in privatized military housing and who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch will lose their school meal subsidies. This would be an insult to these parents who work every day to secure our nation's freedom.”