Agriculture & Nutrition
Minnesota is blessed to have a strong tradition of family farmers and ranchers along with consumers who care about securing a healthy food supply.
Minnesota’s Fourth Congressional District has also seen an influx of new farmers, helping to build vibrant local food economies.
Agriculture initiatives should continue to provide an adequate safety net for Minnesota’s farmers. Within the Twin Cities area, support for farmers markets, community supported agriculture, and community gardens have created a growing food system. Farm policy should be inclusive of these new opportunities. Markets that keep more of a community’s food dollars locally benefit farmers and consumers.
Access to nutritious food is the most fundamental element that contributes to the success of healthy communities. I am a strong supporter of international and domestic programs that address the nutritional needs of women, children, and the elderly. In these tough economic times, safety net for programs such as Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and SNAP food benefits should not be reduced.
Food safety is another priority Congress must adequately fund to ensure the safety of all Americans. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration need resources to protect the American people from the perils of food-borne illnesses.
