WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11)issued the following statement after voting No on the Farm Bill (H.R. 2):

“Today, the House Agriculture Committee passed a partisan Farm Bill that takes food from millions of struggling families, hungry children, and seniors. The Chairman’s bill calls into question whether he and my Republican colleagues are serious about actually passing a Farm Bill. 

“The Farm Bill has historically been the product of bipartisan compromise. Its policies determine how we produce our food, conserve resources, and guard against hunger. Today’s bill does not protect our nation’s farmers, makes nearly $800 million in cuts to conservation programs, and sets in motion policies that will lead to more hunger in America.

“The proposed legislation disregards struggling Americans, who look to the benefits of SNAP for help during times of need. It is another clear avenue of attack in the Republicans’ war on the working poor. I encourage my Republican colleagues to recommit themselves to bipartisanship, instead of perpetuating a mean spirited, demeaning, partisan agenda. It makes no sense to punish hungry families and struggling farmers who rely on a Farm Bill.”