Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018

Floor Speech

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Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of my amendment to H.R. 2.

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Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Chair, my amendment is simple. It directs GAO to study the credit needs of agricultural businesses that are owned and operated by Indian Tribes on Tribal lands.

My district is home to eight federally recognized Tribes, and it has been my honor to represent each of them over the last 16 months. We often hear about how most Tribes are located within food deserts, but we must remember, most Tribes are also located within credit deserts.

Credit deserts occur when there are very few lenders available in a region. The lack of credit options severely impacts the ability of Tribes and Tribal Members to invest and expand their agricultural businesses. By directing GAO to study the unique credit needs of Tribes, we can identify solutions that will result in a system under which their needs are met in an equitable and effective manner.

The Farm Credit System is vitally important for agricultural communities in rural America. Without sufficient access to credit, young farmers will not be able to begin a career and experienced farmers will not be able to expand their businesses. Tribes across the country need fair and equal access to all agricultural programs so they can promote their historical and cultural knowledge for the next generation of American farmers.

This farm bill represents an investment in rural America. With net farm income dropping by nearly 50 percent over the past 4 years, Congress must recognize the vital role our agricultural communities play and provide the resources they need for success.

I thank Chairman Conaway for his leadership in bringing forth a bill that is responsive to the needs of farm country.

Mr. Chairman, I urge support for my amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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