Granger Remarks at FY23 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Full Committee Markup

Thank you, Madam Chair, for yielding.

First, I want to thank Chairman Bishop and Acting Ranking Member Harris for their work on this appropriations bill that funds the Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies. I also want to acknowledge the committee staff for their efforts.

While this bill funds many important programs, it is based on a funding level that passed the House without Republican support. In addition to concerns about spending, I have a few examples of problematic provisions that must be addressed as this particular bill moves through the process. 

First, the bill includes language essentially giving the administration unlimited spending authority for a nutrition program that was already dramatically expanded during the pandemic. At a time when our nation’s spending is at an all-time high, we should not be writing a blank check.

Next, many of us are concerned about the lack of leadership at the FDA, specifically related to the infant formula recall and shortage. Instead of holding the agency accountable, this bill provides a significant increase, when simply providing more funds will not fix this problem.

Some other programs in this bill receive double-digit percentage increases that will grow the size of the federal government. Yet, the bill does not do enough to help farmers and ranchers who are struggling with record-high costs for things like fuel and fertilizer. These high costs will continue to get passed on to American families who are struggling to put food on the table.

in spite of our differences, Members on our side of the aisle will work to ensure this important bill is signed into law. We are committed to supporting our farmers and ranchers, expanding internet coverage into rural areas, and ensuring that our drugs and medical devices are safe and effective.

Both sides will have to agree to leave out controversial provisions and set more reasonable funding levels to get there. I hope we are able to address these issues as this bill moves through the process.

Thank you, Madam Chair, I yield back.