Farm, Nutrition, and Bioenergy Act of 2007

Floor Speech

FARM, NUTRITION, AND BIOENERGY ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - July 27, 2007)

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Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, Chairman Peterson and I agreed that I would not offer an amendment based on our mutual support for the amendment's purpose. I want to thank Chairman Peterson for his leadership on H.R. 2419, and I would like to enter into a short colloquy with Chairman Peterson.

This farm bill is critical for our economy, good nutrition, our small businesses, and it does a lot for underserved populations too. Low-income and minority communities suffer disproportionately from the lack of fresh fruits and vegetables.

In many neighborhoods of New York and across the country where farmers markets are scarce, corner stores are the only place residents shop for their weekly groceries. Unfortunately, due to the limitation of space and many obstacles, many of these stores cannot offer fresh produce and other healthy foods.

Farmers markets and other non-conventional fruit retail sites are essential and play a large role in bringing our communities nutritious food. But without simple and critical technologies, farmers markets are unable to serve low-income consumers. That is why I strongly support expanding wireless electronic benefit transfers. These EBT debit machines allow food stamp consumers to use their resources for fresher, healthier foods. Wireless EBTs are especially crucial for low-income consumers to use.

Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. Mr. Chairman, I recognize the gentlewoman's leadership. I think we can solve this problem with a letter to USDA. So if the gentlewoman will work with me, we will do that. I think we can get this resolved. I support you on this.

Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, I thank the chairman for doing that. That is important not only to provide fresh fruit and produce, but also to fight obesity and other diseases in our country.

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