Agriculture

American agriculture is a dynamic part of our national economy and a significant part of our local communities.  If you eat, agriculture impacts your life and it is important to ensure that American agriculture can continue to meet the needs of our nation.

I am honored to represent the 6th Congressional District, which includes the Shenandoah Valley and parts of central and southwest Virginia.  The Sixth District is one of the leading turkey and poultry producing districts in the nation and ranks among the top 100 in fruit, cattle, dairy products, sheep, corn, and barley production.  In addition to being one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, this region is also one of the most agriculturally diverse.  From corn and grains to vineyards and livestock to forestry products, the Sixth District has a vibrant agricultural economy and through my leadership role on the House Agriculture Committee, I intend to ensure its continued growth.

Actions

• I am a member of the Congressional Biotechnology Caucus, the Congressional Dairy Caucus, the Congressional Chicken Caucus, the Congressional Pollinator Protection Caucus, the Rural Caucus, and the Zoo and Aquarium Caucus.

• I introduced the Renewable Fuel Standard Elimination Act (H.R. 1461). I also introduced the Renewable Fuel Standard Reform Act (H.R. 1462).

• I introduced the Dairy Freedom Act (H.R. 1741), which would provide dairy producers with a viable safety net, without supply management or new administrative fees for dairy farmers. 

• I am cosponsor of the Sugar Reform Act (H.R. 693), which provides real relief for businesses and consumers from burdensome government mandates.

• In order to protect the health of the Chesapeake Bay while also ensuring the strength and vitality of our family farms and local communities within the Bay Watershed, I introduced the Chesapeake Bay Reauthorization and Improvement Act (H.R. 4153) in the 112th Congress.