Washington, D.C. (June 14, 2017) – On Tuesday, June 13th, USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue testified at the Senate Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies on the Administration’s FY2018 proposed budget. During the hearing, Secretary Perdue discussed concerns with cuts included in the Administration’s proposed budget.

“NAWG commends Secretary Perdue for standing up for agriculture and expressing concern over the deep cuts to crop insurance, research, rural development, and international food aid,” stated NAWG President David Schemm. “If implemented, the Administration’s FY 2018 budget would not only inhibit growth in the wheat industry but the entire U.S. agriculture sector.”

“Crop insurance is a critical safety net for producers across the country. When unexpected disaster hits a producer, crop insurance can be the difference of whether or not that grower stays in business,” Schemm continued.

“The U.S. is a worldwide leader in agriculture and eliminating the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development program could mean losing our competitive edge in the global market. NAWG supports the Secretary’s remarks and his work to ensure rural America and farmers have the right tools and resources to move us forward.”