Legislative Activity

Sonny Perdue One Step Closer to Agriculture Secretary

Nearly eight weeks ago, President Trump announced his intention for Sonny Perdue, former two-term governor of Georgia, to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Senate has yet to confirm two of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees, which include Perdue and Alex Acosta for the position of Department of Labor Secretary. Late last week, most of Perdue’s paperwork was sent to the Senate; however, several additional documents are reportedly still missing, including an FBI background check. In a much more expedited process in 2010 following the inauguration of President Obama, former Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, was unanimously approved by the Senate on January 21, 2010.The Senate has yet to announce a nomination hearing for Perdue, but it is likely his confirmation process will proceed quickly once all relevant documents are submitted and reviewed.

This Week’s Hearings:

• On Wednesday, March 15, the House Agriculture Committee has scheduled a hearing titled “Agriculture and Tax Reform: Opportunities for Rural America.” The witnesses will be announced.

• On Thursday, March 16, the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research has scheduled a hearing titled “The Next Farm Bill: Agricultural Research.” The witnesses will be announced.

• On Thursday, March 16, the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry has scheduled a hearing titled “The Next Farm Bill: Forestry Initiatives.” The witnesses will be announced.