Washington, DC – House
Agriculture Chairman, Bob Goodlatte has announced Congressman Richard W.
Pombo (CA-11) is the new Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee.
The Vice Chairman position was formerly held by newly elected House Majority
Leader John Boehner. The Republican Steering Committee appointed
Congressman Pombo to the position.
“As Vice Chairman I will continue to work on
solutions so American family farmers have the tools they need to produce
domestically and around the world,” said Congressman Pombo.
“Specifically, I’ll continue to work for opening both domestic and export
markets for our agriculture products as well as push for increased
investment in the rural community for the competitive edge. By supporting
programs such as the Value Added Development Grants and Market Access
Programs, the Congress can make an investment in the future of agriculture.
I will work hard to make sure market expansion and technological development
continues to be a top priority of Congress.”
“I have enjoyed working alongside Richard for several years and I know that
he will continue to work hard for American agriculture in his new position
as Vice Chairman. In addition, Richard is a strong voice for California
agriculture and ensures that the issues facing producers in California
remain in front of the Committee,” said Chairman Goodlatte.
“By Richard Pombo becoming Vice Chairman of
the Agriculture Committee, it ensures that California Dairy will have a
voice in the development of federal dairy policy. Congressman Pombo has
always been a strong supporter of the dairy industry and we congratulate him
on his appointment as Vice Chairman,” said Case Van Steyn, President of
Western United Dairymen.
“We are pleased to see Richard Pombo named as
Vice Chairman to the Committee on Agriculture. He has worked tirelessly to
open markets for agricultural products around the world. He has also been a
big supporter of our California Sustainable Wine Growing Program which helps
grape growers develop new and innovative practices to improve water quality,
air quality and the environment. Being Vice Chairman, he will provide the
leadership necessary for agriculture to continue to be competitive in the
world market,” said Rodney Schatz, Chairman, California Association of
Winegrape Growers.
For more information on Congressman Richard W. Pombo and his work for California
please visit: http://www.house.gov/pombo
