WASHINGTON (October 26, 2021) – Chair Jim Costa and Chair Stacey Plaskett released the following statement after today’s joint hearing "Agricultural Biotechnology: 21st Century Advancements and Applications".

"Today’s hearing highlighted the important innovations in agriculture that can help address some of the largest threats that face our world," said Chair Costa. "Having a resilient food system that can adapt to changing global dynamics is an important part of national security. Integrating new technologies into agriculture is one way that we can prepare for change. I commend our biotechnology researchers and advocates who are creating ways for farmers and ranchers to build more sustainable and productive agricultural systems."

"I’d like to thank our witnesses and Subcommittee Chair Costa for helping make today’s hearing such a success. It is vital that we continue to find ways for our food and agriculture systems to be more resilient," said Chair Plaskett.

"As Chair of the Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture and Research, I’m committed to ensuring that this Committee will work with researchers and farmers as we look to the ongoing impacts of climate change and how we can develop crops and practices that both mitigate and adapt to climate change. The security and resiliency of our food system is paramount, and continued investments in research and biotechnology will go a long way in maintaining our spot as the world leader in food production," Chair Plaskett added.