Lt. Governor Davis to discuss USDA cuts and state proposals in Pittsburgh

Lt. Governor Austin Davis and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding are set to lead a roundtable discussion at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank regarding the effects of recent USDA funding cuts and proposed state investments. This meeting will focus on how these changes impact food security, farmers, and families in the Pittsburgh area.

Governor Josh Shapiro recently instructed Secretary Redding to challenge the USDA's sudden cancellation of $13 million in Local Food Purchasing Program funds. These funds were intended to support 189 Pennsylvania farms over three years. Following the roundtable, a press conference will be held to discuss the implications of these canceled federal contracts. The press conference will also address Governor Shapiro's proposed $8 million funding increase and other initiatives aimed at resolving underlying causes of food insecurity.

Participants in the event include Lt. Governor Austin Davis, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, Department of Human Services Deputy Secretary Hoa Pham, State Representative Emily Kinkead, Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank President and CEO Lisa Scales, and Harvest Valley Farms Co-owner Art King.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, April 2, at 2 p.m. at the Greater Pittsburgh Regional Food Bank, located at 1 N. Linden Street, Duquesne, PA 15110. Press members planning to attend should RSVP to Shannon Powers at shpowers@pa.gov.