East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Jim Risch, and Pete Ricketts have introduced the Securing American Agriculture Act in Washington, D.C. The bill aims to strengthen agricultural supply chains in the United States and decrease reliance on foreign entities such as China.

Senator Crapo emphasized the importance of reducing dependency on foreign adversaries for national security and a robust agriculture supply. "It is in our best interest to take every step toward mitigating potential threats from the CCP," he stated.

Senator Risch highlighted concerns over China's influence on America's food supply chain, noting its potential impact on the economy and national security. "Allowing Communist China to seize control of America’s food supply chain would jeopardize our economy, national security, and the livelihoods of Idaho’s farmers and ranchers," he said.

Senator Ricketts also expressed concern about China's strategic control over vital sectors of food and agricultural supply chains. He warned that losing access to key inputs could harm productivity and increase food prices. "Communist China’s strategic control over crucial sectors of our food and agricultural supply chains poses a serious national security threat," Ricketts remarked.

The proposed legislation mandates the U.S. Department of Agriculture to conduct an annual assessment of critical food and agricultural supply chains. It also requires recommendations from the Secretary of Agriculture to mitigate potential threats from China and suggests legislative actions to support domestic production.

Joining Crapo, Risch, and Ricketts in supporting this bill are Senators Elissa Slotkin, John Barrasso, Shelley Moore Capito, Deb Fischer, Cynthia Lummis, Rick Scott, and Eric Schmitt.