WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) today applauded a decision made by the United States Department of Agriculture to award California State University – San Bernardino a $200,000 grant to benefit socially disadvantaged farmers. The announcement came just a short time after Rep. Baca, in conjunction with Rep. Frank Balance, Jr. (D –NC), introduced an amendment in the House of Representatives to increase funding for agriculture grants by $5 million dollars.  

“I have always been a big supporter of the 2501 grant program for socially disadvantaged farmers,” Baca said. “As we know from the history of class action lawsuits minority farmers have suffered from discrimination in this nation. Programs like the 2501 grant can help eliminate these inequalities and will help minority farmers and ranchers get the help they need.”  

“I applaud the decision of the USDA and I am confident that the university is a worthy recipient,” Baca said. 

The Baca/ Balance amendment passed the house July 14, 2003. 

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