Opening Statements

Good morning everyone and thank you for joining us today– I would like to start by welcoming the witnesses before us as they help to lay the groundwork for legislation to reauthorize the United States Grain Standards Act. 

I also want to thank Ranking Member Davids for partnering with me to make today’s hearing happen. 

Originally passed in 1916, the United States Grain Standards Act gives the federal government the authority to set official marketing standards for grains and oilseeds. It provides procedures for grain inspection and weighing that are essential to helping U.S. grain maintain its strong reputation for reliable quality and consistency in global markets. 

Bad actors in the 1970’s routinely manipulated the market in various ways to take advantage of producers and buyers, including through bribing officials or contaminating shipments. However, over the years, this committee, working with USDA and industry partners, devised the system of standards and measurements that have earned the positive reputation we see now, ultimately benefiting farmers and consumers alike. 

While much of the Act is permanently authorized, such as mandatory inspection and weighing of exported grain, there are still key provisions that are set to expire this September. A lapse in authorization would disrupt the current grain inspection and weighing process, potentially creating dramatic consequences for the U.S. grain industry.   

Grain standards play a critical role in keeping a key agriculture supply chain strong and supporting U.S. trade; while ensuring farmers receive a fair price and buyers get the product they need. Trust and consistency are what make the U.S. grain industry the golden standard across the globe. 

I hope the discussion today will provide Congress with the necessary insight into the importance of grain standards and shed light on areas where improvements may be necessary. I look forward to getting this vital piece of legislation across the finish line.  

With that, I’ll turn it over to Ranking Member Davids for her opening remarks.