It is my distinct honor to bring up for our consideration today H.R. 4252 – to provide additional funding for scholarships for students at 1890 Land-Grant Institutions.

As a graduate of an 1890 Land-Grant Institution myself – Florida A&M University – I know first-hand how impactful the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions are for their students and their communities.

I, along with some other proud graduates of 1890 Land-Grant Institutions, have been working diligently on this issue for a number of years, and seeing this bill moving forward is great progress for these institutions and their students.

The foundation for this bill was laid in the last farm bill and this is yet another step toward building the pipeline of more talented young minds for our food and agricultural sector. Our bill ensures that this vital scholarship program is authorized permanently.

I urge my colleagues to support this important bill and look forward to your continued support as we push to enact this into law.