Agriculture

"There is no world in which the Chinese Communist Party would allow Americans to buy vast swaths of farmland next to its military bases. We need to protect our farmland and ensure our largest adversary cannot own land near sensitive U.S. military bases," said Moolenaar.

“Michigan farmers work hard to provide the food we rely on every day. The Department of Labor has been raising labor costs on them for years and made it difficult for them to continue operating. I have met with fifth and sixth-generation farmers who worry that unless something changes, they will be the last ones in their families to farm. Passage of my legislation in the committee’s bill today is a step toward providing relief for Michigan farmers,” said Moolenaar.

“Michigan parents’ top priority is putting food on the table for their children, and sadly, that job is harder due to higher food costs caused by President Biden’s failed policies. For affordable and nutritious food, we must support family farms here in Michigan, but the Biden administration has made it more difficult for them to grow and harvest the food we need. Finally, the Senate Agriculture Committee, which is led by Democrats, should pass a Farm Bill that supports our farmers,” said Congressman John Moolenaar, who represents Middleville in the House of Representatives.

“Acting Secretary Su’s indifference to rural America has harmed Michigan farmers and their hope for a prosperous future. I have heard fifth and sixth-generation farmers in my district say they will be the last in their family to farm unless something changes. Unfortunately, the Biden administration and Acting Secretary Su are not addressing this issue with the urgency that is needed. The House should pass my Supporting Farm Operations Act to stop Biden’s increases and provide relief for farmers,” said Moolenaar after the hearing.

“I am thankful to the Speaker for this appointment, and I look forward to working with Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi, the members of the Select Committee, House leaders, and the standing committees in the weeks and months ahead. Together, we can help our country prepare for the challenges we face from the Chinese Communist Party and win the competition against the CCP,” said Moolenaar. “I am also grateful to Chairman Gallagher. He has been an incredible leader for our country as a member of the military, and as a member of Congress, where he was instrumental in creating the Select Committee. His selfless and faithful stewardship of the Select Committee has been a tremendous success and benefited the American people.”

“Secretary Vilsack had an opportunity to side with Michigan farmers today and commit to standing up for them within the Biden administration, especially with the Department of Labor. Unfortunately, Secretary Vilsack refused to do so. He should stand up for Michigan farmers and endorse my Supporting Farm Operations Act,” said Moolenaar.

“I am proud to have the support of more Michigan agriculture groups for my legislation to help farmers. The Department of Labor has been raising costs on farmers for years and these unprecedented increases are making it difficult for them to keep working. Farmers and ag groups support my bill because it will help ensure they can pay a reliable work force and still afford to make ends meet,” said Moolenaar.

“Michigan farmers grow and raise food for Michigan residents and people around the world. My legislation ensures they will continue to have a reliable workforce and can make ends meet while growing the food we need. I am proud to introduce the Supporting Farm Operations Act and will continue my work to advocate for the more than 11,000 farmers living in Michigan’s Second District,” said Moolenaar.