East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Jim Risch, Mike Crapo, and Pete Ricketts have introduced the Securing American Agriculture Act. This legislation aims to protect critical agricultural supply chains and lessen America's reliance on foreign adversaries, particularly Communist China.

Senator Risch stated, "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 emphasized that the act serves as a safeguard against threats to Idaho's agriculture industry.

Senator Crapo highlighted the importance of reducing dependence on foreign entities. "It is in our best interest to take every step toward mitigating potential threats from the CCP," he said. Crapo believes that domestic solutions contribute to stronger national security and a more robust American agriculture supply.

Senator Ricketts expressed concerns about China's influence over vital sectors of food and agricultural supply chains. "Communist China’s strategic control over crucial sectors of our food and agricultural supply chains poses a serious national security threat," he noted. He warned that losing access to key inputs could impact productivity, raise food prices, and threaten food security.

The proposed legislation requires the U.S. Department of Agriculture to conduct an annual threat assessment focusing on critical food and agricultural supply chains. It also mandates recommendations from the Secretary of Agriculture to address potential threats from Communist China and suggests legislative actions to reduce barriers for domestic production.

The bill has garnered support from several other senators including Elissa Slotkin, John Barrasso, Shelley Moore Capito, Deb Fischer, Cynthia Lummis, Rick Scott, and Eric Schmitt.