WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) questioned Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins during a House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies hearing. Congressman Valadao asked Secretary Rollins about international trade, disaster aid, and agricultural labor.

Congressman Valadao also took the opportunity to highlight the General Services Administration's attempted closure of USDA Farm Service Agency offices and asked about the status of regional conservation partnership programs.

“It was great speaking with USDA Secretary Rollins today about several key priorities for the Central Valley’s agricultural sector,” said Congressman Valadao. “I questioned her about supporting our producers through targeting unfair trading practices by foreign nations and ensuring disaster assistance is delivered fairly and without delay. I also highlighted the urgent need for immigration reform to support the Valley’s agricultural labor force, and raised concerns about the status of previously allocated funds for Regional Conservation Partnership Programs that help dairy farmers adopt sustainable practices without compromising productivity. Finally, I stressed the importance of bolstering USDA county Farm Service Agency offices, and reaffirmed my commitment to working with both USDA and GSA to keep this critical agency accessible to Bakersfield and the entire region. I appreciate Secretary Rollins’ time and look forward to working closely with her to deliver real solutions for these critical issues.”

Watch Congressman Valadao’s full line of questioning here.

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