[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 145 (Wednesday, September 18, 2024)]
[House]
[Pages H5323-H5324]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             OBSERVING NATIONAL FARM SAFETY AND HEALTH WEEK

  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Clyde). The Chair recognizes the 
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Thompson) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week, we observe 
National Farm Safety and Health Week. I am honored to stand before you 
to recognize and celebrate the tremendous contributions of our Nation's 
farmers.

[[Page H5324]]

Their dedication and hard work are the bedrock of our entire Nation. 
Food security, after all, is national security.
  As chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I have the 
privilege of working closely with those who lead in the agriculture 
industry. Over the past 1\1/2\ years, I have visited over 40 States and 
met with thousands of farmers. I have seen firsthand the challenges 
that they face, from unpredictable weather to fluctuating markets.
  I have also witnessed their relentless efforts to ensure the highest 
safety and quality standards for the food supply that reaches every 
corner of our country.
  Farmers are the lifeblood of our communities. They feed our families, 
sustain our rural economies, and contribute to the cultural fabric of 
our Nation. They work long hours, often under grueling conditions, to 
provide us with the abundance that we enjoy every day. Their commitment 
and resilience are nothing short of extraordinary. Yet, despite the 
vital role they play to make all of our lives easier, their work comes 
with significant risk.
  Farm life is inherently dangerous. The nature of their work involves 
heavy machinery, unpredictable livestock, and exposure to various 
environmental hazards, from extreme weather conditions to hazardous 
chemicals. No two grains of wheat are the same, and no two farms are 
the same, which means the challenges they face are all different.
  It is crucial we support our farmers with effective safety measures 
and robust support systems. That is why the farm bill, which we are 
working to bring to this floor, is so crucial. This legislation is not 
just another priority policy document. It is a testament to our 
commitment to improving the lives of those who work tirelessly to keep 
our Nation nourished.
  Our discussions on the farm bill have been focused on ensuring that 
it addresses the full spectrum of needs of our agricultural community. 
This bill represents our dedication to fostering a safer and healthier 
work environment for our farmers.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in extending our 
gratitude to every farmer, rancher, and producer across this great 
Nation during National Farm Safety and Health Week. Their tireless 
work, dedication, and unwavering commitment do not go unnoticed. We are 
profoundly grateful for all that they do.

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