Washington, DC (May 23, 2006) – Today, an amendment offered by Reps. Hinojosa, Baca (CA-43), Thompson (MS-02) and Butterfield (NC-01), to H.R. 5384 the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY07 passed by voice vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. The amendment increases funding for the USDA education grants program for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and for the Minority Rancher and Farmer Program.
The Minority Farmer and Rancher Outreach and Technical Assistance Program provides outreach and technical assistance to encourage and assist socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers in owning and operating farms and ranches as well as participating equitably in the full range of agricultural programs offered by the USDA.
“The 15th District is home to a large number of Hispanic farmers, and their numbers are growing,” said Hinojosa. “Our nation is stronger when our minority farmers and ranchers are successful, and this program is a modest investment to advance that success.”
The competitive USDA/HSI grant program is designed to promote and strengthen the ability of HSIs to carry out education programs that attract, retain, and graduate outstanding students capable of enhancing the nation's food and agricultural scientific and professional work force.
“Only 2.7 percent of Hispanic college graduates earn a degree in agriculture-related areas,” he continued. “The continued under-representation of Hispanics in these important demands a greater investment in such programs to expand funding to additional HSIs to better meet USDA goals. This program is making a difference in my community and across the nation.”
