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Johnson Supports Bill to Safeguard Agriculture from Foreign Investments

May 12, 2020

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today signed onto the Agricultural Security Risk Review Act, a bipartisan bill which would formally name the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). The Agricultural Security Risk Review Act would allow USDA to analyze any foreign investment into our nation's food supply.

"COVID-19 has reminded America that our food security is vital - this bill is a no brainer," said Johnson. "This is a national security issue, and agriculture deserves a seat at the table when it comes to foreign investments into our food supply."

The CFIUS is an interagency committee that reviews potential national security threats of foreign investments in the U.S. Currently, USDA does not participate in any review process. Foreign investments in U.S. agriculture is a growing industry and because of recent supply chain issues since the COVID-19 outbreak, these investments have been brought to the forefront.

Johnson continues to prioritize the security of America's food supply. On April 16, Johnson, along with Senator Thune, led a Midwest delegation in urging USDA to assist pork producers and maintain the pork supply food chain. On March 16, Johnson, along with Senator Tillis (R-NC), urged USDA to take all necessary steps to ensure there are no disruptions to our nation's food supply.

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