Farmers and Ranchers Applaud Rep. Alex Mooney for Defeating EATS Act and Addressing Checkoff Corruption
Farmers and Ranchers Applaud Rep. Alex Mooney for Defeating EATS Act and Addressing Checkoff Corruption
CHARLESTON, WV, Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rep. Alex Mooney, R-WV, has been recognized by farmers and ranchers for his outstanding work in defeating the EATS Act and enacting legislation to address checkoff corruption. The Competitive Markets Action (CMA) and Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) recently awarded Rep. Mooney with the 2023 Congressional Leadership Awards and the Competitive Markets Legislator of the Year Award.
The groups commended Rep. Mooney for his efforts in opposing the EATS Act, a measure that would have nullified state and local laws protecting independent family farmers and ranchers. Rep. Mooney, along with other members of Congress, signed a letter to the House Agriculture Committee Chairman and Ranking Member expressing strong opposition to the harmful legislation.
Additionally, Rep. Mooney cosponsored the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act, which aims to reform the USDA’s commodity checkoff programs that have been plagued by unethical and illegal activities. This legislation has garnered support from thousands of farmers and ranchers across the country, as well as various advocacy groups.
In a further show of support for farmers, Rep. Mooney voted in favor of a House Appropriations Amendment that would have temporarily halted corruption within USDA’s commodity checkoff programs. This action was praised by farmers and ranchers who have long been affected by the unethical practices within these programs.
Rep. Mooney’s dedication to supporting American family farmers and protecting the food supply from external threats has earned him the title of Competitive Markets Legislator of the Year for 2023. His unwavering commitment to the agricultural community has not gone unnoticed, with industry leaders and advocates applauding his leadership and courage in standing up to powerful interests.
In a statement, Rep. Mooney expressed his gratitude for the award and reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the livelihoods of West Virginia family farms. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the food supply from foreign takeover and ensuring the prosperity of American producers.
Farmers and ranchers, including Mike Weaver and Taylor Haynes, praised Rep. Mooney for his tireless work and leadership in defending American agriculture from external threats. They highlighted the critical role Rep. Mooney has played in standing up to multinational conglomerates and foreign interests that seek to undermine the integrity of the agricultural industry.
The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) and Competitive Markets Action (CMA) have continued their advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., engaging in meetings and discussions on key legislative initiatives. Their work aims to promote competitive markets in agriculture and protect the interests of farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.
Rep. Alex Mooney’s dedication to fighting for the rights of American family farmers and addressing corruption within the agricultural industry has earned him widespread praise and recognition from industry leaders and advocates. His leadership and commitment to the agricultural community serve as a beacon of hope for farmers and ranchers across the country.