Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies

"Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2112, the Fiscal Year 2012 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

"This bill answers the call from Americans to reduce government spending while still providing for critical programs that keep American agriculture competitive in a global economy. The $125.5 billion in both discretionary and mandatory funding in this bill will help our rural communities to thrive, provide daily nutrition to children and families across the country, and keep our food and drug supply safe.

"However, we can't spend at the rate we used to. We've hit the debt ceiling, we're borrowing more than 42 cents on every dollar we spend – we're mortgaging our children's futures. We must rein in our spending - even if it may not be the most popular thing to do.

"The agencies and programs in this Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill will receive a total of $125.5 billion in both discretionary and mandatory funding, a reduction of more than $7 billion from the President's request. We reduced discretionary spending by $2.7 billion from last year's level – a cut of more than $5 billion from the President's request.

"The bill funds the core federal mission of the agencies and programs that keep our rural communities vibrant and strong. It provides funding that keeps our food and drug supply wholesome and safe. The bill also ensures that American agriculture remains competitive in a global economy; and it provides daily nutrition to children and families throughout the country and the world.

"I appreciate having the opportunity to speak on this bill as we move forward with the 2012 appropriations process.

"The fiscal situation confronting our nation is of immediate importance, and hard choices simply can no longer be put off onto our children in the name of political expediency. This bill reflects your commitment, Mr. Chairman, and that of the whole Committee, to scour each line of the President's budget in search of savings.

"The bill we have before us works to put the agencies funded by this bill on a sustainable budget path, while continuing to fund assistance to farmers, rural communities and low-income families. Where necessary, we have cut funding for duplicative programs and limited funding for programs that have been less than transparent with taxpayer money. At this time of monumental deficits and skyrocketing debt, we cannot afford to let taxpayer dollars slip through the cracks.

"We have before us today the Chairman's mark of the fiscal year 2012 appropriations bill and report for Agriculture, Rural Development, the Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies. Members and staffs have had 24 hours to review the bill language. Staff has had an opportunity to review the report.

"Our discretionary 302(b) allocation in budget authority is $17.25 billion, and we are exactly at that level. This is a tough allocation and it represents funding cuts across the entire bill.