WASHINGTON – House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott of Georgia and Ranking Member Glenn "GT" Thompson of Pennsylvania released the following statements following USDA and USAID’s decision to withdraw funds from the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust (BEHT).

“I am heartened to hear that the Biden Administration will make the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust available to bolster U.S. efforts to combat the global food crises. The extended effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate-related disasters, and ongoing regional conflicts already threatened the food security of too many people around the world, and that has been compounded by Russia’s attack on Ukraine. American farmers and ranchers continue to be leaders in feeding the world and the Trust will make additional U.S. commodities available to people suffering from extreme hunger,” said Chairman David Scott.

“Today’s announcement from the Administration to draw down funds from the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust (BEHT) is welcomed news. Putin’s malicious invasion of Ukraine, unrelenting natural disasters, geopolitical strife, and pandemic-related impacts are wreaking havoc on the world’s food supply, with vulnerable countries and communities feeling it the most. While this necessary action will not completely mitigate the problems we face, it is a step in the right direction. The BEHTwas created for use during times of exceptional need, and while unfortunate, we have reached that moment. I’ve always said food security is national security, and I thank the Administration for acting,” said Ranking Member Glenn "GT" Thompson.

Thirty-six Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, including Chairman Scott and Ranking Member Thompson, previously sent a letter to USDA and USAID requesting that resources available in the BEHT be used to help address ongoing humanitarian food crises.