Congressman Carney Votes To Support Rural Development, Protect Public Health And Help Struggling Families

Press Release

Today, Congressman Carney voted for legislation that will boost northeast and central Pennsylvania's rural economies, help feed struggling families, protect Americans' food safety, and protect Americans against price fluctuations for basic necessities. The Agriculture Appropriations Act passed (266 to 160) and focuses on key priorities, such as: protecting public health: bolstering food nutrition programs; investing in rural communities; agriculture research; strengthening animal health and marketing programs; and conserving our natural resources. To ensure fiscal responsibility, the Agriculture Appropriations Act also cuts millions of dollars from programs that are not working.

"Small towns and rural communities are the heart and soul of this country. Our rural and agricultural towns have been hit especially hard by this economic crisis and I am committed to supporting them through these tough times," said Rep. Carney. "With this bill, we will renew our commitment to rural communities by spurring business growth, supporting new infrastructure and bringing new jobs to our communities."

The bill focuses on helping rural communities hit by the current economic crisis. It builds on the success of the Recovery Act with advancements in community facilities, housing, water projects and rural businesses - creating opportunities for growth and development in every community. To protect low-income families, their children and senior citizens faced with rising food costs and shrinking wages, the legislation increases nutrition aid.

"Americans should never doubt the safety of the food on their family's table. By passing this bill, we are helping families put nutritious food on the table through these tough times," said Rep. Carney. "American agriculture not only feeds our people, it also drives our economy. We must always give our nation's farmers everything they need to grow and prosper, particularly as we work to turn our economy around."

The Agriculture Appropriations Act also supports the agency that regulates our commodities markets like energy and food, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), with the staff and resources it needs to do its job - protecting consumers. We have seen too clearly the impact that improper speculation in these markets can have on the price of oil and gas. This additional oversight will help protect the American people from needless price spikes in the cost of basic necessities.

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