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Smith/McCollum Global Food Security Act of 2014 Passes House in Bipartisan Vote

December 11, 2014

Washington, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives voted to pass the Global Food Security Act of 2014, a bill which would take significant steps to fight hunger worldwide by empowering and supporting small-scale local farmers. Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN) was the lead Democratic sponsor of the bill which was authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ). With over 800 million people worldwide suffering from hunger, this critical investment will improve the health of millions, help to stabilize developing nations, and improve American security.

“We cannot sit by and do nothing as 800 million hungry people suffer, parents are forced watch their children go hungry, and far too many die from malnutrition” said Congresswoman McCollum. “Human dignity, decency, and our own national security demands that we support and sustain this important investment in agriculture development and nutrition.

“This bill is about partnering with hardworking farmers – who are mostly women – to make them more successful. It helps provide access to the knowledge, tools, markets, and business opportunities they desperately need. Because when a woman farmer succeeds, her children and family are healthier and more likely to succeed.

“I have seen the difference our investments in agriculture development and nutrition are having in developing nations. I have met women farmers who are feeding their families, sending their children to school, and investing in their communities. These investments have been proven to work, and I am glad that we were able to do more.”

H.R. 5656 passed with bipartisan support.