Helping Nebraska Producers Feed the World

Statement

The tireless work of our farmers, ranchers, and value-added and support industries has made Nebraska's Third District the number one agriculture district in the country. As we celebrate National Agriculture Week, I applaud their successes and reaffirm my commitment to addressing the challenges they face due to government regulations and unsound policies.

Global demand for food is projected to increase by as much as 60 percent by 2050. Scientists have theorized we will need to produce as much food in the next 50 years as has been consumed over our entire human history. This provides great opportunity for Nebraska agriculture.

In 1960, the average U.S. farmer fed 26 people. Today, this number has risen to 155 people. To meet demand, our innovative producers utilize the latest advancements in the industry, including biotechnology.

When biotechnology is applied to cultivated crops, producers increase yields while using less land, less water, and fewer chemicals. This is not only good for the environment but also lowers the cost of food at a time when one in eight people worldwide is suffering from chronic malnutrition.

Study after study has reaffirmed the safety of biotechnology crops. In fact, genetic modification allows scientists to develop crops containing more nutrients than their non-modified counterparts.

As founder and co-chairman of the Modern Agriculture Caucus, I work to educate my fellow Members of Congress on the importance of biotechnology and genetically-engineered foods in feeding our growing population. I find it odd many of my same colleagues who face the highest rates of poverty and hunger in their districts are determined to fight the innovations which provide greater abundance at more affordable prices.

A bill to establish national voluntary labeling standards for genetically-engineered food products failed to advance in the U.S. Senate this week. If states enforce their own labeling laws with varying standards and definitions, this legal patchwork will force farmers to implement costly new procedures and equipment. These costs would ultimately be passed on to consumers, with the biggest burdens falling to those who can afford them least. I am a cosponsor of House-passed legislation to address this issue and will continue to press for a science-based solution.

In addition to supporting biotechnology here at home, we must also establish science-based, enforceable standards with our trading partners abroad and level the playing field for U.S. producers. In my role on the Ways and Means Committee, I continue to help carefully vet the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement while gathering feedback from Third District producers and consumers.

Additionally, negotiations continue on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership between the U.S. and the European Union, which may provide another opportunity to combat unscientific efforts aimed at keeping modern agriculture products out of the marketplace.

Our farmers and ranchers can undoubtedly meet the growing global demand for agriculture products, but the government needs to get out of the way and let them do their jobs. As we thank our producers for their contributions to our economy and well-being, we must also support sound policies to ensure future success in the agriculture industry and help producers feed the world.

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