Agriculture

Agriculture:

I’m proud to represent one of the most diverse and productive agricultural areas in the world. Northern California is the second largest rice growing region in the nation, we produce over 90% of America’s domestic olives, and we grow over half of all the dried plum produced in the world. Our farmers are also international leaders in almond, walnut, and pistachio production, among other crops.

As a rice farmer, I understand the unique challenges and obstacles facing our agricultural industry, from excessive state and federal regulations, unpredictable and sometimes catastrophic weather conditions, volatile markets, and significant barriers preventing new and young farmers from gaining stability.

During the very first Farm Bill I worked on as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I advocated for eliminating costly direct payments, streamlining federal programs, investing in our specialty crops, and ensuring farmers have the tools they need to endure uncertainties, such as droughts or wildfires. We now must build off those successes as Congress continues to move toward reauthorizing the 2018 Farm Bill. I will continue advocating for policies that provide relief from burdensome red tape, develop new markets for our products, increase flexibility for our ranchers and foresters, and target resources to rural development and broadband expansion.

In Congress, I will continue to fight to ensure our farmers and rancher have the support, certainty and clarity they need to continuing feeding our nation and the world.

For more information concerning my work and views related to Agriculture, please contact me.