Letlow Responds to USDA's Action on Fertilizer Prices

Statement

Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05) today released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announcing new support programs for domestic fertilizer producers in light of current market conditions.

"After raising this issue for months, we're glad to see the USDA take some action and try to address the rapidly rising input costs that our farmers have been facing," Letlow said. "The measures that Secretary Vilsack announced today are a good first step to alleviate these challenges. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to ensure that American farmers can plant, and consumers are not paying outrageous prices at the grocery store."

In early January, Letlow, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, requested that the Agricultural and Food Policy Center at Texas A&M University conduct a comprehensive study on how increased fertilizer prices will impact the overall cost of production. To read a copy of the study, click HERE.

Letlow followed up the study with a letter to Secretary Vilsack on Jan. 19, requesting the USDA to consider the study and use its findings to determine assistance. The Congresswoman also reiterated the importance of the unprecedented economic challenges during the Ag Committee's questioning of the Secretary on Jan. 20

Source