Some congressional ag leaders say they were caught off guard by Ag Sec. Rollins’ proposal to reorganize the USDA.
Now, top lawmakers on the Senate Ag Committee are calling for a hearing.
Senate Ag Committee Chair John Boozman says in part, “The best way to serve our agriculture community is by working together, so it’s disappointing USDA didn’t share its plans in advance of this announcement. I will be thoroughly examining the details of the proposal and look forward to learning more from Secretary Rollins and holding a hearing about the reorganization.”
Ranking Member Senator Amy Klobuchar also expressed disappointment, saying in part, “The USDA must come before Congress to explain why it wants to adopt this plan...This half-baked proposal – submitted with no consultation with leading Agricultural Senators – will set us back. We must have an immediate hearing before more damage is done.”
Secretary Rollins has not released an official statement on these calls for a hearing. Shortly after the plan was laid out, she said USDA will “do right” by continuing to serve farmers and ranchers, as well as USDA employees.
