McCollum's Floor Statement on the Global Food Security Act of 2013 (H.R. 2822)

Mr. Speaker, in the world’s poorest countries, nearly one billion people struggle with hunger every day. Chronic food insecurity limits a child’s ability to grow and to learn.

Across Africa and Asia, hard-working farmers need help producing enough food to feed their families throughout the year. Many of these farmers are women. In fact, it is estimated that 80 percent of these agricultural workers are women.

Earlier this year, I traveled to Tanzania and South Sudan where women farmers told me that they need access to better seeds, tools, and training. With assistance and support, they can grow enough food to feed their families and sell extra produce.

Last week, I introduced the Global Food Security Act, along with Representatives Aaron Schock and Jim McGovern. This bill directs the President to develop a strategy to improve global nutrition, food security, and agricultural development. More than 35 NGOs and faith-based groups support the bill. This bill will improve food security for millions around the world which is the right thing to do. It will also makes America more secure – it is in our own national interest.

I urge my colleagues to support the Global Food Security Act.

I yield back.