Transferring Food for Peace to USDA

Transferring Food for Peace to USDA
This week, I introduced a bill alongside Sens. John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Roger Marshall, M.D., (R-Kan.) and Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) that would transfer the administration of the Food for Peace program to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Food for Peace is a federal program that bolsters our national security, feeds the hungry and provides a reliable market for Kansas farmers by shipping food surpluses produced in Kansas and across the nation to countries in need. On Thursday, I spoke on the Senate floor about this proposal to recognize the importance of the aid provided by Food for Peace and its Kansas connection.

You can watch my full floor speech here.

Currently, Food for Peace is administered by USAID, an agency plagued with bureaucratic delays and a lack of coordination that hinders the ability to efficiently deliver life-saving aid to those in need. Reports suggest that millions of taxpayer dollars have been used to inadvertently support the cultivation of opium in Afghanistan and, even more concerning, it has been confirmed that $9 million intended for civilian food and medical supplies in Syria fell into the hands of terrorist organizations linked to Al-Qaeda due to the failed oversight of USAID. This inefficiency not only wastes taxpayer dollars but also diminishes the impact of Americans' foreign aid in addressing global crisis. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the newly confirmed USDA Secretary, Brooke Rollins, to prevent future waste and bring the program closer to the farmers that depend on it.

You can read more about Food for Peace in the Kansas Reflector, here.

RFD-TV and AgriTalk
On Wednesday, I joined RFD-TV and AgriTalk to discuss the importance of this legislation to our nation’s farmers. By transferring this program to USDA and closer to the producers who grow these crops, we can help reduce waste and make certain our farmers have access to this valuable market. Food stability is essential to political stability, and our food aid programs help feed the hungry, bolster our national security and provide important markets for our farmers.

You can listen to my AgriTalk interview here and watch my RFD-TV interview here.

Confirming President Trump’s Nominees
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
This week, I spoke with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. ahead of his confirmation vote for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Mr. Kennedy committed to working with Congress on issues important to me, including addressing the rural hospital crisis, making certain our farmers and our nation’s food supply remain protected, supporting President Trump’s pro-life policies and continuing to advance America’s leadership in cutting-edge medical research. After reviewing Mr. Kennedy’s confirmation hearings and speaking with him, I voted to support his confirmation. In his new role, Secretary Kennedy will oversee programs that touch the lives of every Kansan. I look forward to working with him on our shared goal of making certain every American, and every Kansan, has access to quality health care.

Speaking at the Delphi Forum & Meeting with Ambassador Davis
This week, I spoke on a panel at the Delphi Forum in Washington, D.C. about the importance of the United States' relationship with Greece and Cyprus. Amidst one of the most challenging national security environments our nation faces, the relationship with our allies and partners is as critical as ever. Greece's economy continues to grow, and it is the fourth highest spender by percentage of GDP on its defense amongst all NATO allies. Cyprus is experiencing a major reorientation towards its relationship with the United States, which was ignited under the first Trump administration. Since then, Cyprus has become an invaluable partner in anti-Russian money laundering efforts in Europe and has the potential to be a major component of Europe's independence from Russian energy sources. Both countries also hold a very valuable geostrategic location situated between Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Prior to the event, I met with the Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Davis. I commended her on her advocacy for the United States interests abroad and investing in this important relationship. Our national security depends on strong and committed partners and allies globally. The United States' growing partnership with Greece and Cyprus is based on shared values and interests that benefit all sides. The United States must continue to invest in relationships with countries that prioritize our relationship, which both Greece and Cyprus continue to do.

Protecting Small Businesses from Burdensome Regulations
This week, I joined my Senate colleagues to introduce legislation that would delay the deadline to file the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s (FinCEN) Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements. A federal court issued a preliminary injunction against this rule but congressional action would provide greater certainty to business owners. Kansans have voiced their concerns regarding the new federal reporting requirements for businesses, particularly in rural areas. This legislation would help provide additional time, clarity and flexibility for businesses in Kansas to comply with federal standards without facing burdensome and unnecessary penalties.

Reversing Biden’s Overdraft Rules
Along with dozens of my colleagues in the Senate and House, I introduced a resolution to overturn the Biden administration’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) final rule capping overdraft fees at banks and credit unions. This eleventh-hour rulemaking exceeded the bureau’s statutory authority under the Truth in Lending Act and would inadvertently hurt those it seeks to help. While the biggest banks can eliminate these overdraft services, many smaller banks and their customers rely on these programs to make ends meet.

Advocating for Education Benefits for Air National Guard
This week, I introduced the Air Guard Standardizing Tuition Assistance to Unify the Services (STATUS) Act to provide educational benefits for the Air National Guard. One of the many benefits the military offers our men and women is financial assistance to pursue voluntary, off-duty education; however, the Air National Guard does not receive this benefit. This bill makes certain members of the guard qualify for the same educational benefits consistent with the program available to the Army National Guard. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in making certain that our servicemembers have access to the benefits they deserve.

Meeting with the Deputy Secretary of VA Nominee
On Tuesday, I met with President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Paul Lawrence Ph.D. Dr. Lawrence is an Army veteran who previously served as VA’s Under Secretary for Benefits from 2018 to 2021. He led the Veterans Benefits Administration during a critical time where VA benefits programs underwent significant reform as a result of legislation like the Forever G.I. Bill, the Appeals Modernization Act, and the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act. His leadership also led to the lowest disability claims backlog in history. In our meeting, we discussed the importance of improving services to veterans, increasing accountability among VA’s workforce and ways that VA can develop a more productive relationship with Congress to best support the needs of veterans in Kansas and across the country. I look forward to Dr. Lawrence’s testimony before the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs next week.

Improving Care for Veterans
On Tuesday, Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) and I introduced legislation to better coordinate and manage health care for veterans who receive services through both Medicare and the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). The Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act would create a three-year pilot program where veterans who are enrolled in both Medicare and the VA health care system would be assigned a case manager to help develop individualized care plans and manage the delivery of health care services from these two government agencies. This would help eliminate gaps in care and duplication of services, improve quality of the health care that dual beneficiaries receive and lower expenses for taxpayers.

I hear frequently from veterans and their caregivers in Kansas about the difficulties they face when trying to access health care they have earned from two different government health care systems. I would like to thank my colleague Sen. King for joining me in introducing this legislation, and I am grateful to have the support of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, the Paralyzed Veterans of America and AMVETS.

Calling for Investigation into VA Crisis Line
This week, I called on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to continue its investigation into the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) to determine how post-contact support efforts for veterans who have contacted the crisis line can be improved. In 2023, the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) published a report regarding insufficient VCL management of a patient who died by suicide, as well as a lack of standard operating procedures and overall inadequate oversight of VCL. I also heard from whistleblowers about concerns that VCL staff were transferring veterans who are presented with complex needs to a special unit within the VCL that was understaffed and undertrained.

GAO is expected to publish its initial investigation in the next few months, and VA is already working to address gaps in the VCL’s operations, staffing, information technology and quality assurance programs as a result. This subsequent investigation will build on that important work to make certain that the VCL is functioning at the highest level to support veterans in crisis and prevent veteran suicide.

Protecting Veterans’ Benefits
One of my highest priorities in the Senate and as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs is taking care of veterans and their families. I remain committed to making certain that the Department of Veterans Affairs remains fully funded and well-staffed to provide the timely, high-quality care, benefits and services that veterans and their caregivers, families and survivors rely on. As the administration works to achieve a more efficient federal workforce, it is important to make certain health care and benefits for veterans are still administered in a timely manner and that VA has the resources needed to provide top-notch services to veterans everywhere. If you are a veteran or VA staff member in need of assistance, please contact my office for help.

Expanding Transparency of Broadband Programs
On Thursday, my colleagues and I reintroduced the Network Equipment Transparency (NET) Act to increase broadband supply chain transparency to make certain that federal broadband programs remain on track. Disruptions to the broadband supply chain can have consequences for critical broadband infrastructure projects that bring reliable coverage to Kansans and Americans. By mandating greater transparency, this bill helps prevent equipment shortages and keeps our critical projects moving forward. I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to move this bill forward.

Meetings with Kansans
Kansas Bankers
A group from the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA) came to Washington this week to meet with me. To support the credit needs of local families and businesses, community banks need right-sized regulations that promote local lending. We discussed the important roles banks play in the economic growth of rural towns. The Access to Credit for Rural Economies (ACRE) Act, a bill I introduced with Sen. King (I-ME), would help community banks lower interest rates for ag real estate and mortgages in rural towns. I look forward to moving this bipartisan legislation forward to provide relief to farmers across the nation and promote rural housing. Thanks to Doug Wareham, Gene Dikeman, Kathy Taylor, Kyle Campbell, Leonard Wolfe and Mark Schifferdecker for meeting with me.

Colby and Pratt Community Colleges
On Tuesday, I met with leadership from Pratt, Colby and Seward to hear updates on the colleges. During our meeting, we discussed plans to expand educational programs offered at all three schools this year. Thanks to Presidents Mike Calvert, Seth Carter and Brad Bennett for taking the time to meet with me in Washington and to Eric and Tammy Killough and Marybelle Bennett for joining them.

Johnson County Community College
On Wednesday, I met with leadership of Johnson County Community College (JCCC) in my Washington, D.C. office to hear about the many areas of educational opportunity and the innovative skills being offered to students enrolled at JCCC, including their veterans support program. Thank you to President Judy Korb, Dick Carter, Dawn Rattan, Greg Mitchell, Melody Rail, Valerie Jennings and Kate Allen for taking the time to speak with me this week.

Kansas City Kansas Community College
I also met with President Greg Mosier, Scott Balog, Donald Ash, Linda Sutton, Bradley Isnard and Joseph Sanchez of Kansas City Kansas Community College this week. During the meeting, we discussed concerns related to federal student loans such as access to Pell grants, which is the largest federal grant program offered to undergraduate students. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services that funds the Department of Education and Pell grants, I will continue to advocate for the resources that allow more Kansas students to pursue higher education. Thank you all for meeting with me.

National Business Aviation Association
On Thursday, I met with Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), to discuss the priorities of the business aviation community and the state of the U.S. aviation industry. Kansas is home to several members of the business aviation community, and NBAA’s members in Kansas are critical to Kansas’ and America’s aviation industry and the broader economy.

It was great to hear from Ed about the state of his members’ industry and how Congress can support a thriving aviation industry in Kansas and the U.S. As chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation, I will work to make certain that Congress is a reliable partner in promoting a safe and robust aviation industry. Thank you to Ed and his colleagues at NBAA for their time and insights.

Kansas State Firefighters Association
Last week, I met with members of the Kansas State Firefighters Association to discuss the importance of the FirstNet emergency communications network. The ability for first responders to communicate effectively during an emergency is paramount to a successful response, and I appreciated the opportunity to hear from Kansas public servants about their experiences in the field. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure that first responders have the ability to do their jobs effectively.

Thank you to Chief John Paul Jones (Ret.), Chief Rick Potter, Chief Thomas Chenworth, Deputy Chief Andy Novak, and Assistant Chief Chad Womble meeting with me during your time in Washington.

Capitol Tour
This week, I was able to meet with Kansans who visited my Washington D.C. office for a tour of the Capitol. Thank you to Coy Allen and Dan and Connie Schmidt for taking the time to visit with me before your tour.

Recognizing Presidents’ Day
On Presidents’ Day, we recognize the service and sacrifice made by our nation’s presidents. Kansas’ own President Eisenhower left a lasting legacy on Kansas and the nation serving as both President of the United States and the Supreme Allied Commander in World War II. I encourage you to visit the Eisenhower Presidential library in Abilene if you are able.

Kansans in the Office

Capital Tours
Amanda Shultz of Lawrence

Connie Schmidt of Hays

Dan Schmidt of Hays

Coy Allen of Haysville

Jason Peek of Lawrence

AFGE
Bryan Harper of Topeka
Don Halliburton of Kansas City

Jennifer Morris of Lenexa

Jenny Ellis of Topeka

Yulanda Smith of Kansas City

American Federation of Government Employees
Rebecca Reinhold of Leavenworth

Cloud Community College
Amber Knoettgen of Concordia

Caesar Wood of Concordia

Colby Community College
Arlen Leiker of Colby

Seth Carter of Colby

Cultivate Kansas City

Brian Darby of Kansas City

Tom Buller of Kansas City

Tammy Kimbler of Salina

Future Business Leaders of America
Mason Lytle of Wellsville

Habitat for Humanity
Daniel Tiller of Wichita

Emily Herbig of Manhattan

Josh Brewer of Manhattan

Quang Nguyen of Wichita

Shawn Williams of Wichita

Highland Community College
Andrew Gutschenritter of Highland

Jennifer Schiller of Highland

Mark Rounds of Highland

Vincent Bowhay of Highland

International Association of Forensic Nurses
Diana Moore of Emporia

Morgan Wood of Kansas City

International Society of Fire Service Instructors
Chelsea Reece of Topeka

Johnson County Community College
Dawn Rattan of Shawnee

Greg Mitchell of Olathe

Judy Korb of Overland Park

Kate Allen of Olathe

Melody Rail of Overland Park

Valerie Jennings of Shawnee

Kansas Bankers Association
Doug Wareham of Topeka

Gene Dikeman of Hutchinson

Kathy Taylor of Topeka

Kyle Campbell of Abilene

Leonard Wolfe of Marysville

Mark Schifferdecker of Girard

Kansas City Kansas Community College
Brad Isnard of Kansas City

Donald Ash of Kansas City

Greg Mosier of Kansas City

Joseph Sanchez of Kansas City

Linda Hoskins Sutton of Kansas City

Scott Balog of Kansas City

Kansas Civil Air Patrol
David Pickel of Olathe

Eric Davis of Ottawa

Mark Lahan of Junction City

Roger Buller of Wichita

Kansas Hospital Association
Aaron Herbel of Moundridge

Alex Olson of Kansas City

Ashlyn Price of Salina

Audrey Dunkel of Topeka

David Jordan of Lawrence

David Wright of Wichita

Eli Wolfe of Kansas City

Jaron Caffrey of Topeka

Jennifer Findley of Topeka

Jodi Schmidt of Hays

Katie Schoenhoff of Halstead

Quinn Alberda, of Kansas City

Kansas Medical Society
Aron Fast of Hesston

Chady Sarraf of Wichita

Estephan Zayat of Wichita

Jany Moussa of Wichita

Jihane Sfeir of Wichita

Nancy Sullivan of Topeka

Tessa Rohrberg of Wichita

Kansas National Education Association
Angie Powers of Olathe

Jonathan Eshnaur of Kansas City

Sherri Schwanz of Lawrence

Kansas State Firefighters Association and PSBTA for Public Safety Nationwide
Andrew Novak of Kansas City

Chad Womble of Kansas City

John Paul Jones of Kansas City

Rick Potter of Shawnee

National Business Aviation Association
Ed Bolen of Salina

Pratt Community College
Angela Killough of Pratt

Dean Fitzsimmons of Pratt

Eric Scott Killough of Pratt

Michael Calvert of Pratt

Seward County Community College
Brad Bennett of Liberal

Mary Belle Bennett of Liberal

Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace
Emily Forest of Valley Center

WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
Lacey Ledwich of Wichita

Laura Fowler of Wichita

Kansas Common Sense

Transferring Food for Peace to USDA

Feb 18 2025

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