Little Apple Times

U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann, Rick Crawford, Dan Newhouse, David Rouzer, and House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson have joined forces with Senators Jerry Moran and John Hoeven to propose a shift in the administration of the Food for Peace program from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Rep. Mann expressed his support for this change by stating, “President Trump made a promise to the country to cut wasteful spending, reduce overbearing federal bureaucracy, and ensure every taxpayer dollar is spent wisely and responsibly.” He emphasized that moving Food for Peace to USDA would provide more transparency and efficiency in how taxpayer dollars are managed.

Rep. Crawford highlighted the importance of Food for Peace as a critical program for American farmers with a proven track record of feeding people globally. He believes that transferring the program to USDA would align it better with America's priorities since USDA already manages similar international food assistance programs.

Rep. Newhouse pointed out that relocating the program would allow a commodity-focused agency like USDA to manage it more effectively while ensuring funds are used responsibly. He stated, “America must continue to be a global leader in the fight against hunger.”

Senator Moran reflected on Kansas' historical role in providing food aid and supported moving Food for Peace closer to producers to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.

Senator Hoeven noted that since USDA already administers farmer-based food aid programs, it makes sense for them also to oversee Food for Peace.

The legislation has garnered support from over 50 organizations. Chris Tanner from Kansas Association of Wheat Growers praised Senator Moran and Congressman Mann's leadership on this issue. Adam York from Kansas Sorghum Producers Association emphasized prioritizing American agriculture in domestic and foreign policy challenges.

Caleb Ragland from the American Soybean Association underscored soybeans' role in addressing global hunger and supported efforts to protect these programs under USDA's administration.

Amy France from National Sorghum Producers advocated for moving U.S. food aid programs under USDA, emphasizing its benefits for American sorghum farmers.

Kim Z Cooper from North American Millers’ Association commended Representatives Mann, Thompson, Crawford, Newhouse, Rouzer, and Senators Moran and Hoeven for their legislative efforts.

Representative Mann has been an advocate for Kansas’ leadership in combating world hunger through initiatives such as introducing reform legislation for Food for Peace in June 2023.