[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 27 (Monday, February 10, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H591-H592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        PROTECTING FARM FAMILIES

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize 
crucial legislation that protects farm families. Farming tends to be an 
asset-rich but cash-poor industry, and America's hardworking farm 
families should not be unfairly burdened when it comes to accessing 
higher education.
  For generations, these families have contributed to our Nation's food 
security and economy. Yet, their eligibility

[[Page H592]]

for Federal student aid has been hindered by policies that count their 
land and equipment as financial assets, despite the fact that these are 
essential for their livelihoods and not readily available for 
educational expenses.
  I am proud to cosponsor the Farm Family and Small Business Exemption 
Act, which would ensure that farm families and small business owners 
are no longer penalized for owning the tools and property that sustain 
their work.
  By preventing these assets from being counted against financial aid 
eligibility, we are leveling the playing field and assuring that the 
children of farmers and small business owners have the same 
opportunities to pursue higher education as their peers.

  Mr. Speaker, I thank Representatives Mann and Panetta for leading 
this commonsense solution. Investing in the future of farm families 
strengthens rural communities and our country.

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