Washington, D.C. – International Economic Development Council (IEDC) President and CEO Nathan Ohle today issued the following statement on the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture’s Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. He said:

“On behalf of the thousands of economic development organizations and professionals we serve, we thank Chairman Thompson for his leadership in advancing the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. 

“This legislation would reauthorize important programs within the U.S. Department of Agriculture and provide resources aimed at strengthening rural communities across the United States.

“IEDC supports a strong Rural Development title, especially programs that help rural communities build capacity, strengthen local economies, and expand opportunity for rural places and people. We also appreciate the inclusion of language supporting technical assistance in economically distressed areas, which represents an important recognition of the need for more dedicated funding and programs focused on building local economic development capacity in rural communities. 

“We look forward to working with Chairman Thompson and Congress to advance a long-term Farm Bill that provides communities with the tools and resources needed to support sustainable economic growth in the years ahead.”

For information about IEDC’s position on the Farm Bill and other federal policy priorities, visit https://www.iedconline.org/pages/iedc-advocacy/.

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IEDC is the world’s largest association for economic developers. Originating a century ago, IEDC is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization that represents the entire economic development profession. IEDC members fulfill a critical role in applying and managing federal resources dispersed locally and regionally across communities of all sizes. Members are committed to advocating for policies that help advance economic prosperity across the United States and with America’s trade and investment partners. Additionally, IEDC equips economic development organizations and practitioners with policy advocacy resources that promote community vitality and global competitiveness. For more information, please visit www.IEDC.org.