WASHINGTON – Below is a statement from House Agriculture Committee Chairman David Scott regarding congressional action to avert a rail strike:

“Reliable rail access is vital to our food and agriculture supply chain, which delivers critical products to every American. As a supporter of workers, I sympathize with the concerns raised by the rail union members," said Chairman David Scott.

"I hoped that the railroads and their unions would be able to come together without the need for Congress to intervene. Unfortunately, it has become clear that Congressional action must be taken to avoid a national rail shutdown. Without taking this action, agriculture and the American people would suffer tremendous hardship. I am hopeful that the Senate will pass both resolutions to protect U.S. economic stability and maintain a transportation system with adequate worker benefits so we can ensure a safe, reliable, and globally competitive agriculture industry,” Chairman David Scott continued.