As trade deals continue to dominate the discussion, it is worth pointing out that 11 of our top 15 trading partners in 2017 were once recipients of U.S. assistance. Unfortunately, the budget put forward by the administration would completely eliminate two key U.S. Assistance programs: the Food for Peace Program and McGovern-Dole.
Opening Statement by Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Collin C. Peterson
The Next Farm Bill: The Future of International Food Aid and Agricultural Development
--As Prepared for Delivery--
“Thank you Mr. Chairman. I’m happy to be here today to continue the Committee’s work ahead of the next farm bill and to welcome today’s witnesses to the Agriculture Committee.
“The United States, for more than 60 years now, has led the way in providing food for those in need around the world. Through partnerships with private organizations, millers and shippers, we have delivered more than $80 billion in domestic product, benefitting hundreds of millions in need around the world since World War II. These facts and the testimony we will hear today illustrate the importance of these programs.
“As trade deals continue to dominate the discussion, it is worth pointing out that 11 of our top 15 trading partners in 2017 were once recipients of U.S. assistance. Unfortunately, the budget put forward by the administration would completely eliminate two key U.S. Assistance programs: the Food for Peace Program and McGovern-Dole. I would urge the administration and members of Congress to consider today’s testimony and look to the work we did as part of the last farm bill to improve these programs when considering potential budget cuts.
“I hope our witnesses will be able to share some examples of program successes but also, as we approach a new farm bill, any areas that might be in need of improvement and what changes, if any, we should consider within the next bill.
“Again, I thank the Chair and look forward to today’s testimony. I yield back.”
