As the founder and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Fitness Caucus, I realize it is critically important that we teach families the importance of nutrition and exercise so that they can establish a healthy lifestyle.  This will help in the fight against heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some types of cancer that are caused by obesity.

The Tennessee Nutrition and Consumer Education Program (TNCEP) plays an important role in improving the lives of food stamp eligible families by increasing their knowledge of nutrition.  I contacted the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to weigh in support of this initiative amid reports that the TNCEP program was to receive a 50% reduction in funding for this year.

According to the USDA, the TNCEP will receive $2.11 million for this year, down from the $2.8 million they received last year.  The USDA believes that many programs nation-wide go beyond servicing food stamp recipients and have expanded beyond the original intent of the program.  They will be meeting with the University of Tennessee Agriculture Extension Services, which administers the TNCEP program, to go over the new guidance requirements that are being implemented. 

As a Member of the House Appropriations Committee which provides funding to the USDA, I will work closely with both sides to make sure TNCEP receives the funding it needs.  I am working hard through the Congressional Fitness Caucus to raise the issue of obesity and the need for a balanced diet to the national forefront and the TNCEP program is an important tool in this fight.