United States Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2020

Floor Speech

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Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

American-grown grain is known around the world as the safest, most reliable, and the highest-quality product in the world. This reputation remains unchanged and unchallenged, thanks in part to the USDA's Federal Grain Inspection Service authorized by the U.S. Grain Standards Act.

The Kansas economy is dependent upon continued strong agriculture exports and the certainty that comes with strict grain quality and inspection standards.

Kansas exported almost $4 billion in farm goods to over 96 different countries this past year, and Kansas remains the seventh largest State for agriculture exports.

Strong demand for Kansas grain and feed products ensures a strong Kansas economy.

Through rigorous standards set by our Federal inspection system, grain and feed products grown by Kansas farm families are eagerly accepted around the globe. It is because of this predictability, transparency, and certainty of our Nation's grain inspection system that the world continues to look to the U.S. for agricultural and food products.

These high standards are yet another reason the USTR has been so successful--in fact, renegotiating successfully over 50 percent of our ag export markets over the past 4 years.

I applaud the passage of the U.S. Grain Standards Act and will remain dedicated to removing barriers and leveling the playing field for agriculture exports. As part of these efforts, it is essential that the U.S. maintains its reputation and its credibility for safe, high- quality crops and food products.

Through reauthorization of this bipartisan legislation, Congress is ensuring the continuation of the USDA's grain inspection services and supporting farmers and ranchers across the country.

Finally, I want to salute and say thanks to two of my great friends who are mentors and leaders in the ag world. Our current chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Collin Peterson, I thank the gentleman for his great leadership and for his friendship. Of course, I salute our current ranking member and our past committee chairman as well, Mike Conaway. The chairman has done a great job as well. It has been an honor to work with the gentleman. I wish both gentlemen Godspeed and health to all their families.

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